Media advisory
PEI RCMP See Rise in Animal-Related Road Incidents
April 30, 2025
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RCMP Headquarters, PE, Prince Edward Island
From: Prince Edward Island RCMP
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PEI RCMP are reminding motorists to stay alert on Island roads following approximately 80 animal-related calls over the past year involving animals on or near roadways, about 20 more calls than the year before.
The majority of these calls involve escaped farm animals, including cows, horses, goats, and pigs. While most situations are resolved safely with animals quickly recovered by their owners, several cases have posed serious risks to public safety—some even resulting in vehicle collisions.
One notable incident near Albany involved two vehicles, injured drivers, and two deceased cows, prompting a temporary road closure. In another case, a large group of over 80 goats and 2 sheep were seized in Sherbrooke under the Provincial Stray Livestock Act, and the owner was charged accordingly.
Under the Act, a peace officer may capture and impound stray livestock if the owner is unknown, cannot be located promptly, fails to retrieve the animals, or has repeatedly allowed the animals to roam freely.
While less common, police have also responded to reports of geese obstructing traffic and vehicles stopped dangerously to observe roadside wildlife.
In rare cases, PEI RCMP work in coordination with the Department of Agriculture, which can dispatch trained livestock wranglers to assist in safely removing animals from roadways.
Quotes
“PEI RCMP urge drivers to be alert for animals on roadways, especially in rural areas. Collisions can happen quickly putting people and animals at risk. If you see a loose or stray animal that could pose a danger to motorists report it to police.”
Cpl Gavin Moore the PEI RCMP Media Relations Officer.