We strive to coexist with wildlife, but sometimes our infrastructure hinders animals’ movements.
Occasionally, these animals require human intervention. Recently, a man was observed assisting a baby moose over a highway guardrail.
This incident occurred in Anchorage, Alaska. According to Andrea Bock, a mother moose was attempting to lead her calf across the highway, but the guardrail posed a challenge for the young moose.
While the mother successfully crossed to the other side, the calf found itself stranded, anxiously pacing back and forth amid passing cars.
However, a man, identified as Joe Tate, stepped in to help.
Tate decided to lift the calf over the guardrail, enabling it to reunite with its mother. Tate informed KTUU, “It was tired. It was very young. Maybe about a week and a half old.”
Although he contemplated contacting Animal Control, Tate hesitated fearing that a moose could be struck by a vehicle before help arrived.
Dealing with moose is serious as they can be dangerous animals. The mother might have perceived him as a threat and retaliated, or the calf could have been abandoned post-contact.
Nevertheless, Tate, a military veteran, outdoorsman, and hunting guide, leveraged his experience with wildlife to take a calculated risk in assisting the calf.
Fortunately, the rescue unfolded without incident: Tate successfully guided the moose over the rail, reuniting the calf with its mother on the opposite side.
“Everything ended well,” Tate stated. “It could have gone wrong, and I acknowledge that. However, it worked out, and the risk I took was worthwhile.”
KTUU disclosed that Tate’s actions technically violated Alaskan laws, as interacting with wildlife is prohibited. Nonetheless, the Alaska Wildlife Troopers decided not to press charges, recognizing Tate as a “good Samaritan.”
Thanks to this compassionate act, the calf was joyfully reunited with its mother! What heartwarming news. Share the story!
