Last year, it was an emu escapee. This year, it appears the Monticello area will be captivated by a moose on the loose.
Central Minnesota, including the Monticello area most recently, has been in a bit of a frenzy over a young bull moose that has made its way through the region. It was spotted near Olivia late last month, and has slowly drifted north. Footage of the moose from areas around Monticello, including Bertram Chail of Lakes Regional Park, has been posted across social media.
The moose now has its own Facebook Group, as social media followers track the Central Minnesota Moose.
Rumors spread yesterday the county had put the animal down, for fear of danger to residents. However, it’s not uncommon for a bull to leave the common territory of northern and northeastern Minnesota for areas south, according to the Minnesota DNR. Officials said they will leave the bull alone as much as possible. The only concern is if the animal starts making its home in urban backyards.
For now, “Bullwinkle,” as some have dubbed the animal, is still roaming. He was last spotted off of Wright County Highway 106 this morning, witnesses said.
Check out this video of the moose on Facebook.
We wish him a safe journey north.
A young bull moose settles near a fence. A bull like this was seen near Monticello Thrusday and Friday. (File photo)