JACKSON, Wyo. — Late February snowfall in the Tetons went nearly uninterrupted, with snow falling on nine of the last 10 days of the month. So far, March has been right on par.
Deepening snow means that wildlife has moved to lower elevations and often into more developed places, increasing the likelihood of wildlife-vehicle collisions and other conflicts.
Wyoming Game and Fish officials ask residents to be aware and show patience with wildlife that often shows up in developed areas.
“With such early and deep snows in the area, all kinds of wildlife are moving to lower elevations this year and often into more developed places. We usually don’t expect to see these animals in our neighborhoods, our fields or on our highways,” said Lander Wildlife Biologist Stan Harter.
Game and Fish officials also ask motorists to be wary and exhibit patience to avoid collisions with wildlife. “Wildlife are frequently using area roadways this time of year and can be hard to see in low light situations,” said Harter. “We really need to slow down and give ourselves plenty of braking distance, especially on potentially slick roads.”
In the video provided, a moose tries to cross Teton Pass (HWY 22) on Sunday, March 5. Cars stopped to give way to the ungulate who took around 10 minutes trotting back and forth across the road.
Many big game winter ranges in Teton County have further restrictions to either human presence or motor vehicles during the winter months. However, the shed antler regulation applies to all federal or public lands in Teton and Sublette counties, even lands that may not be covered under additional winter range closures.
Game and Fish offers these tips to reduce conflicts with and stress on our wildlife this winter:
- Be especially watchful during times of low light.
- Look for tracks or other signs of wildlife on trails, pathways or around houses.
- Never crowd an animal or surround it.
- Always allow an animal an escape route.
- Always control pets while walking them and make sure there are no wildlife around before letting animals out of the house.
- Consider carrying bear spray as a defense.
- View and photograph animals from a distance.
- Do not feed wildlife.
Similarly, Wildlife Habitat Management Areas managed by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department in the Jackson and Pinedale regions are closed to human presence Dec.1 through April 30.
As with other laws and regulations, enforcement and public cooperation are key to effectiveness. Anyone witnessing a wildlife violation may call the Stop Poaching hotline at 1-877-WGFD-TIP. Stop Poaching tips can also be reported online. Tips may result in a reward and informants can choose to remain anonymous.
For more information on how to properly live with wildlife, contact the Wyoming Game and Fish Department office at 307-367-4353 in Pinedale or 307-733-2321 in Jackson.
