Prevent conflicts with moose

Because of their large size and strength, adult moose have few natural predators and may exhibit bold behavior toward people.

Viewing moose

Moose are surprisingly elusive, especially considering their large size. If you are lucky enough to see a moose, stay a respectful distance away to enjoy this magnificent animal. In most cases, the moose will move off. Try to avoid startling a moose. During the breeding season in fall, or the calving season in spring, be especially cautious because bulls can be unpredictable and cows can be very protective of their calves. Keep dogs leashed and under control. Moose are unwary as they move through populated areas, particularly during the mating season.

Moose in populated areas

If a moose is in a densely populated area, leave the moose alone and contact the nearest MassWildlife District Office or the Environmental Police to report the sighting and get advice. The Environmental Police Radio Room can be reached 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1 [phone].

Moose, especially yearlings, will sometimes appear in densely populated areas, having followed waterways or forests into the heart of an urban center. Never try to approach or pursue a moose. Pursuit not only stresses the animal, but it adds the risk of having a moose chased out into traffic or into a group of bystanders. Wildlife professionals recommend letting the moose find its way out of populated areas and into nearby forested areas. However, when too many people congregate around the moose, it can become stressed and feel cornered. Occasionally, trained staff from MassWildlife and/or the Environmental Police may need to use immobilizing drugs to take a moose out of a dangerous public safety situation.

Vehicle collisions with moose

Be particularly alert, especially at night during the fall breeding season (September–October) and during yearling dispersals, when yearling moose are driven away by their mother (May–June). Moose will step out onto a roadway without showing the slightest concern for oncoming traffic. The dark body is difficult to see and their eyes are much higher than those of white-tailed deer, so are often not reflected back from headlights. Because they are so heavy and have long legs, the body often will come through the windshield and onto the driver, making collisions extremely dangerous. Swerving to avoid a moose can be equally dangerous, so please drive slowly and hit your brake if you see a moose.

Additional Resources

Learn about moose

Living with moose fact sheet