DEC Contact: David Winchell (518) 897-1248 October 02, 2018
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DEC Advises Public to Be Alert for Moose in the Adirondacks |
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Motorists should be alert for moose on roadways in the Adirondacks and surrounding areas at this time of year during peak moose activity, advises the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Early fall is the breeding season for moose in northern New York. During this time moose are wandering looking for mates, leading them to areas where they are not typically seen. While this improves the opportunities for people to enjoy sighting of a moose, it also increases the danger of colliding with one on the roadway. Moose are much larger and taller than deer. Their large body causes greater damage, and, when struck, their height often causes them to impact the windshield of a car or pickup truck, not just the front of the vehicle. This past weekend three moose-vehicle accidents were reported resulting in the death of the moose in each collision. New York has no recorded human fatalities resulting from an accident with a moose. Moose are most active at dawn and dusk, which are times of poor visibility. Moose are especially difficult to see at night because of their dark brown to black coloring and their height - which puts their head and much of their body above vehicle headlights. DEC advises motorists to take the following precautions to prevent moose vehicle collisions:
Hunters, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to enjoy wildlife from a distance. Do not approach wildlife, particularly species like bear or moose that could be aggressive toward humans or protective of their young. More information about moose can be found on the DEC website at www.dec.ny.gov/animals/6964.html. |
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