As they were driving to a doctor’s appointment, Kirk Barharn and Angie Hillmer noticed something unusual by the road.
In an old wire fence, they spotted a moose tangled up, frantically trying to free herself.
The couple immediately pulled over, determined to help. Despite recovering from an ankle injury, Kirk limped out of the car and headed toward the struggling moose.
Wanting to capture her partner’s heroic rescue, Angie took out her camera and began recording the whole event.
In a conversation with Sarah Penton from CBC, Kirk mentioned that the moose panicked upon seeing their car approach but was completely unable to move. He explained:
“I don’t think she could move at all, because her front hooves were [trapped] in there.”
Using nothing but his bare hands, Kirk helped the moose wrangle free from the wire fence.
In less than three minutes, the moose was free and made her way back to the wilderness she called home.
Angie couldn’t help but brag about her partner’s heroic rescue mission to their friends. She recounted the entire event in a Facebook post, writing:
“It isn’t everyday that one gets to rescue a moose. Kirk is over the moon.”
According to CBC, conservation officer Brandon Beck noted that it’s not unusual for moose and other wildlife to get trapped in wire fences, especially during colder months.
These animals often get stuck while trying to jump over fences to reach a destination.
While relieved that the moose was alive and well, Officer Beck advised against rescuing wildlife directly.
He recommended seeking help from conservation officers instead of attempting rescues on your own. He said:
“[Barharn] was able to get it out, but I’ve had other situations where people get injured by a moose while trying to help them.”
Thankfully, no one was hurt during this risky rescue mission.
The moose was freed without any injuries and was able to return to her family, while Kirk made it to his doctor’s appointment on time.
And in case you’re wondering – his ankle is healing just fine!