Moose are found in New York, marking a notable ecological recovery as these impressive animals have re-established a population after a long absence.
Moose Distribution in New York
Moose in New York are predominantly found in the northeastern part of the state, particularly within the vast Adirondack Mountains. This region provides suitable habitat, characterized by a mosaic of mature mixed forests, open areas, and abundant wetlands. These areas offer the diverse vegetation moose require for sustenance, including leaves, twigs, and buds from trees like willows, birches, and maples.
Beyond the Adirondacks, moose are also observed in the Taconic Highlands, which run along the Massachusetts and Vermont borders. Individual moose sometimes disperse into eastern Washington, Rensselaer, and Columbia counties. Occasionally, lone moose may even venture into southeastern New York and the Catskills, though these are typically transient individuals.
Wetlands are important during warmer months, as moose frequently wade into ponds and other aquatic environments to feed on submerged plants, which provide essential sodium. Specific locations within the Adirondacks where sightings are more common include areas along Route 3 between Saranac Lake and Plattsburgh, Meacham Lake, and the Limekiln Lake-Cedar River Road. Early succession forests, often resulting from timber harvests, also create suitable areas for moose due to abundant young browse.
Population Dynamics and Return
Moose were once common in New York but were extirpated by the 1860s due to unregulated hunting and widespread habitat destruction. Several small-scale reintroduction attempts between 1870 and 1902 were unsuccessful. However, beginning in the 1980s, moose started to naturally recolonize the state, migrating from neighboring populations in Vermont, Massachusetts, and Quebec.
By 1986, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) documented a small, resident population of an estimated 6 to 11 moose in the Adirondacks. This number gradually increased, with the latest data from October 2024 estimating the population within the Adirondack Park at 716 moose, with a confidence interval ranging from 566 to 906.
The NYSDEC collaborates with Cornell University and SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry on multi-year research projects to monitor the health and stability of the moose population. These studies involve GPS-collaring adult cows and calves to track survival rates and movements. While New York’s moose population is protected with no hunting season, factors like brainworm, carried by white-tailed deer, and giant liver fluke can impact moose health and survival.
Coexisting with Moose
Encountering a moose in New York can be an exciting experience, but remember their immense size and wild nature. Adult bulls can weigh between 600 and 1,200 pounds and stand up to six feet tall at the shoulder, making them the largest land mammal in the state. Maintaining a respectful distance, ideally at least 50 feet, is essential for your safety and the animal’s well-being.
If a moose appears agitated or nervous, slowly back away and avoid making sudden movements. Should a moose charge, running away and placing a physical barrier like a large tree or vehicle between yourself and the animal can help deter the charge. If knocked down, curl into a ball and protect your head and neck, as moose typically attack by stomping.
Vehicle safety is particularly important, as moose are frequently active during dusk and dawn and their dark coloration makes them difficult to see, especially at night. Drivers should obey speed limits, pay attention to moose crossing signs, and reduce speed in areas with limited visibility. Collisions with moose can cause significant damage and are more likely to result in human fatalities compared to deer collisions due to the moose’s large size and height.
The NYSDEC encourages the public to report moose sightings through an online form, as this information is valuable for ongoing monitoring of distribution and abundance. In situations involving aggressive moose or vehicle collisions, report the incident to the DEC’s 24/7 dispatch.