Yaks Run Loose on Talkeetna Spur Road

At least twice this summer, yaks have been spotted running loose along the Talkeetna Spur Road. Mat-Su Borough Animal Control has opened a case for multiple reports about the loose animals. 

A Borough Animal Care Officer who asked not to be named says the yaks can be aggressive and it’s difficult to herd them. And the extensive area that the officers cover makes it difficult to respond in a timely manner when the animals are on the move. 

The Care Officer says if the animals are impeding traffic or endangering the public, contact Troopers immediately to report it. He also says pictures and video with time stamps may be critical in issuing citations since the yaks are unlikely to still be in the same place when officers arrive.

The Care Officer notes that reporting the incident quickly is critical so they can follow up. If the animals are not an immediate threat, reporting the incident to the Mat-Su Borough Problem Reporter will help document the situation. The Officer stresses that pictures with time stamps may serve as documentation for a citation. 

Should the yaks run loose again this summer, the Care Officer says don’t attempt to herd them, but instead document and report the incident.

Reference case number C0009601198