Moose encounter prompts closure of Scenic Acres Park

Scenic Acres Park in northwest Calgary isclosed to the public after reports that a group of peopleapproached a moose and two young calves in the area despiteposted warnings, a provincial official says.

Posters had already been put uparound theneighbourhood telling peopleto steer clear of the animals, whichwere first seen last week.

The park was closed Thursday becausepeople reportedly approached the moose and calves the night before,saidBrendan Cox, a spokesperson for fish and wildlife officers.

"The people then backed off and the moose calmed down, which is a good sign. But if we close the area and discourage people from approaching it, hopefully there won't be any further situations," he said.

"We need to give it the space it needs to leave the area.It's close to the river and the hope is that it can use that natural wildlife corridor to leave the area and get clear of the city"

Provincial wildlife officials say they are monitoring the situation, even though the animals appearshy of people and have not shown signs of aggression.

• Moose shot in Calgary after busy day for wildlife officer

Moosesightings can be reportedat1-800-642-3800.