Moose calf survives fall through ice into pond
Near-miss highlights illegal use of aerators on private property ponds
JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. — Tragedy nearly struck last week when a moose calf fell through an ice pond in South Park.
According to the Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance, the moose calf cracked through thin ice created by the pond’s aerators—in use to keep pond water clean and algae-free. Aerators also keep ponds from fully freezing over.
Fortunately for the young moose, local landowners and Wyoming Game and Fish officials were able to respond and rescue the calf. The calf was reunited with its mother moments later, and both were observed doing well afterwards.
Land Development Regulations were updated in 2018 to prohibit use of aerators on private property ponds for just this reason. Dogs, especially had become prone to falling through thin ice created by aeration. All aerators in Teton County must be shut off from December 1 through April 15.
