This photo provided by the New Mexico Department of Game...

This photo provided by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish shows authorities surrounding a bull moose in Santa Fe on Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023. Authorities say the wandering bull moose was captured and relocated to a suitable habitat after it was first spotted Tuesday morning. Credit: AP

SANTA FE, N.M. — A wandering bull moose was captured in downtown Santa Fe and relocated to a suitable habitat in northern New Mexico, authorities said.

State Game and Fish officials and Animal Service Officers for the city said the moose was spotted about 8 a.m. Tuesday near Fort Marcy Park.

Officers set up a perimeter to protect residents and pedestrians in the park, which is a popular walking area.

Authorities said a bull moose can be aggressive toward humans and pets, especially during the breeding season, which begins in late September.

The moose was sedated with a tranquilizer dart and loaded onto a trailer before being evaluated by a Game and Fish Department veterinarian and determined to be in good health.

Department biologists estimate the moose weighed more than 900 pounds (400 kilograms) and was 4 to 5 years old.

Game and Fish officials said moose are a protected game animal in New Mexico and there is not an open hunting season for them.

This photo provided by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish shows a bull moose in Santa Fe, N.M. on Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023. Authorities say the wandering bull moose was captured and relocated to a suitable habitat after it was first spotted Tuesday morning. Credit: AP

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