Shooting of popular moose in eastern Quebec sparks investigation

SAINT-RENE-DE-MATANE, Que. – Wildlife officials are investigating the shooting death of a moose that had become the quasi-mascot of a village in eastern Quebec.

The female had become very popular in recent months with locals and tourists who would approach her to feed her or take photos.

A passerby witnessed the shooting on Saturday morning and posted images on social media.

Provincial police intervened to escort the two hunters in order to avoid incidents with locals.

Wildlife spokesman Jacques Nadeau says investigators need to determine where, how and when the animal was killed as well as find out if they had permits.

Nadeau says the hunting season was on when the shooting took place.