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Mighty Mac fights back

Mac has given his caretakers in Moose Jaw, Sask., permission to once again make him the world's tallest moose statue.

The moose says he would even wear an RCMP Stetson or stilettos if it made him taller.

Mac held the title for decades at almost 10 metres high. But Norway has put up a silver moose statue that edges out Mac by 30 centimetres.

Tourism Moose Jaw's executive director says the city is willing to do whatever it takes to put Mac back on top.

Jacki L'Heureux-Mason says it's more than just a good-natured competition.

"This puts our Mac in the spotlight, putting Moose Jaw on the radar of potentially millions of visitors," she said at a Monday news conference. "This is big."

Some people in Norway are aware of the campaign and say they are prepared to lock antlers with Moose Jaw for the honour of having the tallest statue.

L'Heureux-Mason said shedding Mac's antlers to grow bigger ones is the obvious answer. Talks with structural engineers are to take place to determine the best option.

Mac weighs 9,000 kilograms and has been welcoming visitors from his perch along the highway since 1984. He won an award in 2013 for being Moose Jaw's best celebrity.

Mayor Fraser Tolmie, who read a statement on behalf of Mac, said the moose is flattered by all the attention he's been receiving.

Mac added he hasn't received this much attention since mating season.

"One way or another, I will soon reclaim my status as the world's largest moose."



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