New York residents are being asked to report moose sightings via an online form as part of ongoing Department of Environmental Conservation efforts to monitor moose across the state.
While the Adirondacks are home to most New York moose, some live in the eastern part of the state along the Vermont and Massachusetts borders. Moose can also occasionally be found in southeastern New York and the Catskills, but these are usually individuals that have dispersed from other areas.
In 2020, the public submitted over 250 moose observations to DEC; approximately 50 moose observations have been reported so far in 2021.
Moose are the largest land mammal in the state. In the summer, when most sightings occur, moose typically spend a lot of time in ponds and wetlands feeding on submerged aquatic plants. During the rest of the year in cooler weather, they browse on leaves, twigs, and buds of trees and shrubs.
Favored browse species include willows, birches, maples, balsam fir, viburnums, aspen, and mountain ash. Bulls weigh up to 1,200 pounds and stand up to six feet tall at the shoulder. Cows weigh anywhere from 500 to 800 pounds and usually give birth to one or two calves in late May or early June.
Because many moose sightings occur along roadways, drivers are advised to be cautious when on roads at dusk and dawn. Moose can be hard to spot due to their dark color. Do not block traffic if a moose is seen, and remember to respect wildlife by keeping quiet and viewing from a distance.
Those who manage to capture one of these magnificent mammals on camera are asked share images by email to wildlife@dec.ny.gov.