Man Rescues Stranded Moose Calf on Prince George Highway

A mother moose tried to lead her newborn twins across a highway near Prince George, British Columbia. The adult crossed, but the calves became trapped in the concrete median. One calf scrambled over the barrier; the other remained stuck. As traffic backed up, driver Duane Hogberg approached, lifted the calf, and carried it across to reunite with its mother. Motorists recorded the moment, which later spread online.

Man Carries Stranded Moose Calf Across Busy Highway to Reunite It With Its MotherThe Cool Down

Motorist Sandie filmed the slowing traffic as the mother moose lingered on the opposite side, watching her calves. Witness Valerie Johnston captured the calf, describing it as “super soft” with fur like a kitten’s and noting it still “smelled like a moose.” She said the newborn ran toward Hogberg, who said instinct took over. Johnston added the calves were “so new they could hardly walk,” and that online comments were “almost all positive” and “people loved it.”

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Wildlife experts warn that approaching distressed animals can be dangerous and may cause the animal to reject human contact after release. Authorities advise the public to call conservation officers rather than intervene directly. A similar incident at Yellowstone, where tourists helped a baby bison, ended with the animal being rejected by its herd, illustrating the risks of well-meaning interference.

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The rescue sparked debate over immediate compassion versus long-term wildlife welfare. Critics note that while the mother moose stayed calm and the calf accepted its mother, such outcomes are not guaranteed. Experts stress that human presence can stress animals, increase traffic hazards, and alter natural behavior, recommending assistance be coordinated with trained wildlife professionals.

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The reports differ on the incident’s exact location. One source cites Highway 97 near Prince George; another places it on Highway 16 at Peden Hill. Both describe a mother moose and trapped calves, but one mentions “twin calves” while the other notes the mother and “another calf” had already crossed. No official statement from provincial wildlife authorities has been recorded, leaving the response protocol unclear.

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• “I can't say I ever held a baby moose before.” — Duane Hogberg, Driver

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• “It's not something you see every day, just some guys picking up a baby moose.” — Valerie Johnston, Witness

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• “[The calves] were so new they could hardly walk.” — Valerie Johnston, Witness

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• “ It had even reached people stuck further back in the traffic jam who didn't know its cause.” — Duane Hogberg (as reported)

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The video of the rescue circulated widely on social media, generating largely positive public reaction. Wildlife officials continue to advise motorists to report similar incidents to conservation officers rather than intervene directly. No further follow-up on the specific calf’s health or any formal investigation has been announced.

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