What do you do when you find a dead animal on your property?

The snow has melted (for most of us), and we often find ourselves what grows out of the receding snow. Items like lost tools, wrappers, that missing key to the gun cabinet, and sometimes the tragic findings of dead animals. This winter was particularly difficult for moose, and the number of carcasses I see on my daily commute to work amazes me. If you are one of those unfortunate people, you might not even know where to start about what to do; and even worse, you might have the dubious misfortune of discovering who is responsible for disposing of the body.

Finding a dead animal on your property can be a disconcerting and emotional experience. Whether it's a pet, a wild animal, or livestock, the most important thing to know up front is that it is your responsibility as the property’s owner to be steward of your land, and that includes the mitigation of carcasses deposited on it. It is essential to handle the situation with care and respect. Here are some steps you can take if you find a dead animal on your property:

Assess the situation: Before taking any action, take a moment to evaluate the situation. Determine the size, type, and condition of the animal. This information will help you decide the best course of action.

Ensure your safety: If the animal appears to be diseased, injured, or poses any risk to your safety, it's important to maintain a safe distance. Some dead animals can carry diseases or attract other wildlife. If you're unsure, it's best to err on the side of caution.

Contact local authorities: Depending on the circumstances, you may need to notify the appropriate local authorities. The appropriate agency can provide instructions on proper disposal or offer assistance, but the wrong agency will end up circling you back to where you started and leave you feeling like you were given the runaround. In the case of domestic animals or livestock, contact your local animal control department. For the City of Wasilla, call 907-352-5401. For City of Palmer, call 907-745-4811. For City of Houston, call 907-892-9130. For all other unincorporated areas within the Mat-Su, call 907-746-5500 or 907-861-7801. Those agencies can check their missing animal logs or come out to scan and possibly retrieve the animal. If it's a protected or endangered wild species, a wild animal with a tracking collar, or one that you think may have died of starvation or illness, contact the Alaska Department of Fish & Game Palmer office at 907-746-6300 and talk to one of their biologists. If you have concerns that the animal may have been harmed or died from illegal hunting or unsafe hazing, contact the Alaska Wildlife Troopers at 907-352-5401.

Safely and legally handle the remains: If you decide to dispose of the animal yourself, it's important to do so safely and hygienically. Wear gloves and use a shovel or other tools to minimize direct contact. Avoid touching your face or any open wounds. Different jurisdictions may have specific regulations regarding the disposal of dead animals. Some areas may require you to report findings or seek permission before taking any action. In most circumstances, a carcass can be taken to a transfer station to be taken to the landfill. Like any other load, they need covered for the transportation – not just for the prevention of parts falling off, but nobody wants to explain to the 6-year-old in the back seat looking forward why a desiccated Rudolph or Bullwinkle is laying down on the trailer of the pickup in front of them.

Do not simply drag the carcass to another nearby vacant property if you live in a populated area, as that will become an attraction for stray animals or wild animals such as bears that are waking up and hungry. Dragging it out to the roadway does not magically make it become an issue for your local government, who may simply allow nature to take its course and not burden taxpayers with the cost of disposal. Other options may include burial, cremation, or contacting a local waste management service. Burial should be done at an appropriate depth to prevent scavengers from accessing the remains.

Reflect and seek support: Discovering a dead animal on your property can be distressing. Take the time to process any emotions and seek support if needed. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups who can provide understanding and comfort.

In the end, if you're uncertain about how to handle the situation it's always a good idea to seek guidance from local authorities or professionals. The Alaska Department of Fish & Game is a wonderful resource that is underutilized. They can provide specific advice based on your location and the circumstances surrounding the discovery. By approaching the situation with care and respect, you honor the life that was lost on your property while also cleaning up your lot.

Christian M. Hartley is a 40-year Alaskan resident with over 25 years of public safety experience and public service. He runs a freelance business, Big Lake Writer, from home in Big Lake that he shares with his wife of 19 years and their three teenage sons.