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Keep Wildlife Wild: Pumpkins in Housing Neighborhoods

Friday, October 24, 2025

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Keep Wildlife Wild: Pumpkins in Housing Neighborhoods

Friday, October 24, 2025

Print

As Halloween approaches, we want to remind residents of the safety concerns associated with placing pumpkins outside.

Safety Concerns:

  • Moose Attraction: The scent of pumpkins can lure moose into housing areas, increasing the risk of encounters.
  • Legal Implications: Allowing moose to feed on pumpkins is considered feeding wildlife under Alaska law, which can result in fines.

Guidelines for Residents:

  • Avoid Outdoor Displays: Refrain from placing real pumpkins outside. If you wish to decorate, consider using artificial pumpkins.
  • Temporary Displays: If you choose to display a pumpkin, place it outside only on Halloween evening and bring it inside before going to bed.
  • Dispose Properly: After Halloween, dispose of pumpkins promptly to avoid attracting wildlife.

Under Alaska law (5 AAC 92.230), feeding wildlife is prohibited. Allowing a moose to feed on your pumpkin or other decorations can result in a fine.

Reporting Wildlife Concerns:

If you observe a moose in your neighborhood or have concerns about wildlife, please contact JBER Security Forces at 907-552-7070. They will dispatch Conservation Law Enforcement personnel to assist.