Animal Protection Austria Sounds the Alarm: Hype Around Moose "Emil" Endangers the Animal

"When corporations use Emil as an advertising figure, it fuels the desire for photos and encounters. This not only endangers Emil but also people. Emil is a wild animal, not a mascot," warns Stephan Scheidl, animal shelter manager of Tierschutz Austria. The animal protection organization also views contributions like that of Austrian Airlines critically in this context, as they indirectly lead to increased attention and additional fan tourism.

Tierschutz Austria: Moose "Emil" is impressive, but not dangerous

With a shoulder height of up to 2.30 meters and a weight of about 500 kilograms, "Emil" appears impressive. Nevertheless, moose are generally peaceful herbivores that avoid contact with humans. They only become dangerous if they are harassed or stressed, for example, by tourists who follow or attract them. Tierschutz Austria recommends the following when dealing with moose "Emil":

It is not so unusual for "Emil" to appear here. Moose were native to Central Europe until the 17th century, and individual animals occasionally roam areas like the Waldviertel. "Emil" is therefore a rare but by no means alien visitor.

Moose "Emil" protected from being shot in Austria

Legally, "Emil" is protected: although moose are among the huntable species, they are protected all year round in Austria. A shooting would only be permitted in absolute exceptional cases, such as an acute threat to public safety. "We hope that Emil can continue his journey safely and find a suitable territory. This will only succeed if we humans end the hype and give him the necessary peace," says Scheidl.

His journey undoubtedly carries significant risks - railway tracks, roads, and highways pose a real challenge today. "But Emil is doing well! And if we now also show consideration for him, he can continue his journey unharmed - his current route is exciting, no one knows exactly where he wants to go - but it seems he has a goal in mind," concludes Scheidl.

Moose "Emil" also has a Wikipedia entry

The cult moose has not only made it to a Facebook fan page with now more than 12,500 members on his tour through Lower Austria but also to a Wikipedia entry - "Emil (Moose)" - which lists the sightings of the guest in the state. The number of page views there was nearly 22,000 on Thursday.

(Red)

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