A difficult winter with heavy snowfall and cold temperatures has hit the moose population hard, says a Prince George conservation officer.
Gary van Spangen said moose are coming into the city as they try to survive the elements and the deep snow.
"They are looking for easier travel corridors and food, and they are in weakened conditions."
Conservation officers are asking the public to show some tolerance for moose hanging out in subdivisions.
"We've been trying to move some of them out by tranquilizing them, but we've lost three out of six due to weakness. They cannot withstand being tranquilized," Spangen said.
"Some come in with non-life threatening injuries they've received in the wild, and two of them have even succumbed to that.
"We are asking people to give the moose their space. Don't approach them or try to get too close to take pictures. If they are blocking the way, toot the horn.
"If they feel threatened they will attempt to defend themselves, but if given lots of space, they will not be a threat," he said.
He said the calls are mainly from residents who are fearful for the safety of children.
"Maybe the parents can drive the kids to school or walk with them for a little while until the snow is less and the moose move back to their habitats.
"If we need to deal with more moose this winter, we're going to have to put them down so we don't lose them, and the meat will be given to charitable organizations."
There are still about six moose roaming around College Heights and the Hart Highway areas.
Spangen said that includes a mother moose and two calves which are frequenting Pinewood Subdivision.
"When you think about it, it's pretty amazing that Prince George has wild life right in its back yard. "We need to appreciate that, but also remember that moose are wild animals which need to have their space."
