News Release

Wounded Moose in the Exit Glacier Area

Date: June 12, 2020
Contact: Shauna Potocky

Kenai Fjords National Park staff are monitoring the Exit Glacier area for the presence of a wounded moose and her calf. Visitors to the area are advised to use precautions and be diligent regarding safety. A wounded moose poses unique safety issues, as the animal may be more protective or agitated. In addition, a wounded moose can draw in black bears and brown bears.

At this time, park staff are assessing the area daily. Park visitors and commercial use operators are asked to report any sightings of the moose to park staff in order to help the park assess and manage the area for everyone’s safety. All information or sightings reported to park staff are greatly appreciated. There are staff on site at Exit Glacier and information can be provided directly to Chief Ranger Jesse Pike by calling [phone].

Initial reports indicate that on Saturday, June 6, 2020 at approximately 12:15 p.m., a moose was shot by a park visitor in response to an aggressive charge. The incident is currently under investigation. The event occurred on the Harding Icefield Trail above the second bridge and below Marmot Meadows. The trail was closed for six hours for visitor safety. Park staff continue to monitor the entire Exit Glacier trail system and are sharing safety messaging on site.

Visitors to the area are asked to be prepared for wildlife encounters. Increased bear activity is expected, and all visitors should carry bear spray and know how to use it. 

Safety reminders: 
•   Give wildlife plenty of space and view wildlife from a distance.
•   Moose, particularly moose with calves, can be aggressive. If you encounter a moose and it has not detected you, move away slowly and give the animal plenty of space. If the moose is aware of your presence, speak calmly and quietly as you move away.  This will help the animal not perceive you as a threat. During surprise encounters, or if a moose charges, protect yourself by getting behind something solid such as a tree or vehicle. Unlike bear encounters, running from a moose can be an appropriate response.  
•   Both black bears and brown bears reside in Kenai Fjords National Park. Visitors are encouraged to hike in groups, make noise and not surprise a bear. Visitors are encouraged to carry bear spray and know how to use it. If you encounter a bear and it has not detected you, move away slowly and give the animal plenty of space. If the bear is aware of your presence, speak calmly as you move away; this will help the animal to not perceive you as a threat. Do not run from a bear. If a bear actively pursues you or is aggressive, using bear spray has been shown to be an effective deterrent.

•   For additional information on wildlife safety, please visit the Wildlife Safety page of the park website.

Visitors are also reminded to Recreate Responsibly and continue to follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines when visiting the park. 

Updates about NPS operations will be posted on www.nps.gov/coronavirus. Please check with individual parks for specific details about park operations.