Is There A Moose In Your ‘Hood? ADFG Seeking Info On Fairbanks/North Pole Sightings

The following is courtesy of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game:

ADF&G Seeks Public Help Reporting Moose in Fairbanks / North Pole during Feb. 23–27

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game is asking residents in the Fairbanks and North Pole areas to report moose sightings between Feb. 23–27, 2026.

Biologists will use these reports to locate and safely immobilize adult female (cow) moose as part of a new study on urban moose within the Fairbanks Management Area (FMA). The FMA is a 300 square-mile moose management zone that encompasses Fairbanks, North Pole, and the surrounding areas. Unlike moose in many areas of Alaska, those within the FMA face few predators but have many human-related challenges, such as vehicle collisions and other negative human/moose encounters.

This study will help biologists learn about moose movement, survival, habitat use, and provide a better understanding of moose mortality, especially vehicle collisions. This information will guide refinements to hunt strategies, improve nuisance response, and provide information to guide future habitat projects to reduce conflicts and collisions within the FMA.

As part of this project, biologists will safely immobilize moose using dart-delivered sedatives, collect samples (hair, blood, swabs), and fit GPS collars. The GPS collars will record locations every 6 hours and will last about 5 years before dropping off. This year’s goal is to collar 15–20 moose with another 10–15 next year.

How to report moose sightings (Feb. 23-27):

• Online: Wildlife Encounter Report Form:https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=reportwildlifeencounter.main
• Call or Text: 907-371-4022

o Include date & time, location, and number of moose

ADF&G thanks the public in advance for their help!