The Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) is reminding residents across the state to remove pumpkins and fall decorations from their yards to help prevent unwanted moose encounters.
Officials say that while pumpkins are a popular autumn decoration, they can attract moose into neighborhoods looking for an easy meal. Once drawn in, moose may linger around homes, creating potentially dangerous situations for both people and animals.
“Pumpkins are tempting treats for moose, but they can cause digestive problems and increase the risk of harmful encounters,” the department said in a recent advisory. “They are not a natural food source and may harm moose rather than help them.”
The ADF&G warns that once moose associate neighborhoods with food, they are more likely to return—especially during colder months when natural vegetation becomes scarce. Residents are advised to dispose of leftover pumpkins and other edible decorations responsibly to keep wildlife at a safe distance.
This reminder is part of the department’s broader effort to reduce human-wildlife conflicts and promote safe coexistence with Alaska’s native species.
For more wildlife safety information and seasonal guidance, visit the official ADF&G website.
News Source: Alaska Department of Fish and Game
