Moose in Connecticut
Connecticut is home to a resident moose population. While not as numerous as in northern New England states, their establishment signifies the suitability of certain Connecticut habitats. The current population is estimated to be around 100 to 150 animals. This re-establishment marks a return of moose to areas where they were historically absent for over a century.
Moose Distribution in Connecticut
Moose in Connecticut are primarily found in the northern regions of the state, with the highest concentrations in the northwest corner. These areas include towns such as Barkhamsted, Canaan, Colebrook, Goshen, Granby, Hartland, Norfolk, Salisbury, Stafford, and Union. Significant populations reside within the Metropolitan District Commission’s watershed property surrounding the Barkhamsted Reservoir and the Great Mountain Forest, which spans Norfolk and Canaan. Northeastern Connecticut also supports a moose presence, particularly in the Woodstock, Union, Ashford, and Stafford regions. These animals prefer forested habitats and wetlands, often frequenting regenerating forest areas that provide abundant young plants for browsing.
Understanding Moose Presence
The return of moose to Connecticut is largely a result of natural expansion from neighboring states with growing populations. As forests regrew across Massachusetts, young moose began dispersing southward, eventually establishing a resident breeding population in Connecticut. The first official photograph of a Connecticut moose was recorded in 1956, with sporadic sightings increasing from the 1980s through the 1990s. Annual sightings of cows with calves since 2000 confirm the successful establishment of this population. Forest management practices that encourage regenerating growth, such as those found in areas like the Metropolitan District Commission lands, create ideal browsing habitat for moose, contributing to their continued presence.
Despite their successful re-establishment, the moose population faces challenges. Warmer winters, a result of climate change, allow winter ticks to remain active, impacting moose health and survival. These ticks can infest moose by the thousands, weakening them and can be fatal, particularly for calves. Young moose often wander extensively, traveling 5 to 10 miles daily in search of suitable territories, which can lead them into less ideal or populated areas.
Coexisting with Moose
Interacting with moose requires caution due to their large size and unpredictable nature, especially if they feel threatened. It is important to maintain a safe distance and avoid approaching them, as they can become aggressive during rutting season or when cows are with calves. Moose are most active during dawn and dusk, increasing risk of encounters, particularly on roadways. Their dark coloration and height can make them difficult to spot in low light conditions, posing a risk to motorists.
If you encounter a moose, it is advisable to give them ample space and never startle them. The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) requests moose sightings, particularly near highways, be reported to emergency dispatch at 860-424-3333. Other moose sightings can be reported to the DEEP Wildlife Division at 860-424-3011 or via their online reporting system. Citizen-submitted data helps wildlife biologists monitor the population and inform management decisions.