the amorous moose

CALGARY - Alberto the moose is on the loose.

But while he's big and likely amorous, he's not considered dangerous. Alberto is a resident of the Calgary Zoo's "ranch" about 10 kilometres south of the city. It's believed that he broke down a gate overnight on Sept. 24 and hasn't been seen since.

"The autumn is the rutting season for moose ... and the males become quite persistent in seeking out breeding females," said curator Bob Peel.

"Calgarians may be quite surprised to learn that it is not uncommon for wild moose to live in the area surrounding the city and we believe our bull was attracted by a wild female in the area."

The zoo maintains that Alberto poses no public danger. But with hunting season fast approaching, the public may pose some danger to Alberto.

The zoo issued a public service announcement Friday for help in locating Alberto, who wears a white tag on his right ear.