What to do when snow reveals a dead animal

Spring brings long days, warmer air, and the slow melt of snow. That melting snow also reveals things many residents did not see during the winter. Dead animals often appear along roads, in yards, or in wooded areas once the snow pulls back. The sight can raise many questions, such as “Who should you call?”, “Is it safe to handle the animal?”, and “Can you take it to the landfill?”

Those answers depend on the type of animal and where it is found. In some cases, state or borough agencies need to step in.

Large wild animals such as moose and bears require the most attention. If you discover a dead moose or bear, don’t move it yourself. These animals weigh hundreds of pounds and may attract other wildlife and stray dogs. Residents should contact the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. The agency tracks wildlife deaths and may recover usable meat from a moose through a program known as the roadkill salvage program. If an animal is not salvageable, they can help you learn how to dispose. Reporting these animals helps the state keep track of wildlife conditions and reduces waste.

If the animal is a smaller wild species such as a fox, beaver, or porcupine, the situation is different. Usually, you can leave the animal where it is if it is far from homes or trails. Nature has its own cleanup crew. Ravens, eagles, hawks, foxes, and other scavengers will remove the remains as part of the normal food chain. If the animal is close to a home, park, or road where it may cause concern, residents can call the Alaska Department of Fish and Game for guidance.

Handle domestic animals like dogs and cats with special care. If you find a dead pet, contact Mat-Su Animal Care and Regulation. Animal control officers may scan the animal for a microchip or help locate the owner. This lets the family learn what happened to a pet.

Many residents ask if they can take a dead animal to the landfill. The answer is usually yes, but there are conditions. The Mat-Su Borough Central Landfill in Palmer accepts animal carcasses from residents, but the local transfer stations do not. Securing the animal in a bag or container prevents exposure during transport. Residents should contact the landfill ahead of time to confirm the current policy for disposal. Landfill staff will explain where you should place the carcass once you arrive.

Safety should always come first. Dead animals can carry parasites or diseases, especially birds. It is best to avoid direct contact with your skin. You should wear gloves and use tools such as a shovel and bags if you need to move the animal. Wash your hands and tools after handling any carcass.

Spring in Alaska reveals many signs that winter has passed. Finding a dead animal is not pleasant, but knowing what to do can make it easier to manage.

If you want more information, residents can contact the Alaska Department of Fish and Game in Palmer at 907-746-6300, or Mat-Su Borough Animal Care and Regulation at 907-746-5500. Both agencies can provide guidance when unusual wildlife situations arise.

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.