Fake elk used in safety campaign

STOCKHOLM, Sweden, Aug. 29 (UPI) -- Papier-mache elks are being used to remind Swedish drivers of the dangers lurking along the side of the road.

Police say about 35,000 elk are hit on Swedish roads each year.

The imitation elks are being placed about 80 to 160 feet from the road so that they appear as real as possible. Police will then stop many drivers and ask them if they saw the animal, the Local reported.

Some 9,000 car travelers were stopped during last year's campaign.