MEGAN

I have always had a strong love for animals and wildlife.  Growing up on a farm in Wisconsin, I helped to take care of cows, pigs, chickens, etc. but never in my wildest dream did I ever think that I would travel thousands of miles to Alaska to become a Moose Mama and help raise moose calves. Joining Moose Mamas was one of the best decisions of my life!  My life has completely changed since my internship in the summer of 2021.  When I first read about Moose Mamas in early 2020, I knew I had to apply.  I was looking for a change in my life and praying to God that the universe had something greater in store for me.  The thought of going to Alaska, living amongst strangers, raising these majestic animals was equally thrilling and terrifying to me. I asked myself, "Was I really ready to give up the life I knew and trust that this was the right thing for me to do?"  The answer ended up being a resounding "Hell Yes!"  And so I packed my bags with excitement the following spring.  Being a volunteer for Moose Mamas taught me so many things. Not only did I learn how to raise moose calves, but I learned so much about Alaska! The wildlife, the environment, the outdoors, the people, the culture - it was all so beautiful and completely fascinating to me . We successfully raised and released two amazing moose calves and they most definitely taught me the most of all.  The animals go against their instincts and have to trust humans to take care of them. They grow, adapt, prepare, and eventually walk out into the mountains where they are once again wild and free.  It's impossible not to become emotionally attached to such wonderful creatures, but that's just a part of the experience.  The incredible reward of rescuing, raising, and releasing the moose far outweighs the grief that comes when it's time to say goodbye.  I will never forget my time at Moose Mamas and I am beyond thankful for the relationships formed and experiences that I was able to have during that one beautiful summer!