Last Updated on September 14, 2023 by Amin Tawar
Huge, magnificent, and secretive, moose are one of the United State’s popular animals. But did you know that they are found in New York?
Below, In this article, I’ve explained everything you need to know about moose in New York, where to find them, and what you must do when you spot one.
Are There Moose In New York?
Yes, there are moose in the state of New York. Moose have existed in the northern region of New York since the Pleistocene era. However, during the 1860s habitat degradation and overhunting had extirpated them from the New York State. In regards to, a few small-scale moose rehabilitation measures were launched from 1870 to 1902, but none were confirmed successful.
During the next eighty years, only periodic moose sightings were recorded in the state, but none appeared to indicate an established population. Today, moose mostly are located in the Taconic Highlands and the Adirondack Mountains of the state.
How Many Moose In New York?
The New York Department of Environmental Conservation says that there are around 900 moose present in the state. But, since they travel close to 100 miles in just a few of several weeks, this number can vary as moose leave and enter the area.
More than 10,000 moose are living in the northeast parts of the U.S., this is the highest concentration of moose population in the nation apart from Alaska. Moose often roam between the boundaries of neighboring states, as the political boundaries are not as important to them as to the humans living there.
How Big Are Moose In New York?
The moose is the biggest species of the deer clan (Cervidae) and one of the largest land-living mammals in the state. Male moose (bulls) can weigh anywhere between 600 to 1,200 pounds and grow up to 6 ft tall at shoulder levels.
Female moose (cows) can weigh anywhere between 500 to 800 pounds. Both bulls and cows have grayish-white, long legs, black or dark brown bodies, and a hanging flap of skin beneath the throat known as the bell.
An adult bull’s bell is quite bigger than that of a cow’s and calf’s bulls. Only bulls develop antlers, starting in March. These antlers, regrow every year and can reach a width of 5 feet or more on adult bulls. The antlers are shed anywhere between November to January.
How rare/Common is it to see a moose in New York?
Though moose are present in the state, it is not very common to see one. This is because moose mostly occur only in boreal forest regions of the Northern Hemisphere.
In New York, they are primarily located in the northeastern portion of the state in the Taconic Highlands and the Adirondack Mountains near the Vermont and Massachusetts borders. Also, they like to live in areas where there is food for them to browse every day.
Also Check Our Guide On Moose In America
Where To See Moose In New York?
Moose are mostly active at dusk and dawn which makes it easy to spot one at that time of the day. Also, they are very active during the during which is their mating season, this is when they are mostly found roaming around the region very enthusiastically.
Moose can be seen mostly in the Adirondacks, so here are a few moose-spotting areas where moose sightings are repeatedly reported.
- Vermontville (Route 3)
When you drive from Plattsburgh to Saranac Lake on Route 3, you can notice some moose crossing signals. Moose are often seen along the roadsides as the drive runs next to the Saranac River and next to many grassy wetlands and open fields that are perfect moose habitats. To increase your possibility of seeing one, you can wait in the early morning.
- Meacham Lake
The Meacham Lake is a famous destination for campers, boaters, and moose! They can be seen from the road. You enhance your experience by getting into nature. Also, you can stay there for longer, as you go kayaking or canoeing on the lake.
- Saranac Lake
Saranac Lake has thousands of acres of woods, surrounding its water body. Linking them are shallow canals filled with lake grasses and lily pads – a moose’s favored feast. Book an island campsite near Saranac Lake and you can spot a moose wandering on its way to a delicious treat!
- The Limekiln Lake-Cedar River Road
This backwoods drive is the best place for moose sightings. This 23 miles stretch, extends from the Wakely Dam Gate to the Limekiln Gate. As the road is remote, moose have plenty of room to wander around without bothering about human meetings. You can also go camping or paddling in the nearby waterways, like Helldiver Pond, to increase the chances of spotting a moose exponentially!
- Lake Lila
Lake Lila, surrounded by wilderness, is a secure shelter for all creatures. As motor usage is prohibited, moose are found enjoying this lovely oasis in silence. The only sounds heard are bullfrogs croaking, fish splashing, and the wind rustling. And of course, the moose rings, which can be experienced at some moments in the Adirondacks.
Can You Hunt Moose In New York?
Hunting of moose is not permitted in the state of New York as these species are protected by law in the state.
What To Do If You See A Moose In New York?
If you see a moose in New York, make sure to observe these guidelines to guarantee a positive adventure for both the animal and you:
- Never approach a moose, maintain a respectful distance.
- Back away further, if a moose looks to be nervous.
- If the moose charge, never stand your base.
- They need distance, so provide it to them by moving away fast.
- When it no longer feels risky, they will quit charging.
- It does not want to harm you, they simply want to be alone.
Also Check Our Guide On Moose In New Hampshire
Conclusion
And that was everything you need to know about the Moose In New York. I hope this article was informative and your queries were answered.
Thank You For Reading!
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