State to drivers: Be alert to avoid moose

Moose are more likely to be crossing roadways at this time of year, especially after dark or early in the morning, Vermont wildlife officials warn. (VT Fish & Wildlife Photo)

It’s easy to give “moose crossing” signs just a passing glance, but, as the state of Vermont is reminding motorists, watching out for these massive creatures is serious business. And I know this from personal experience. 

Driving home late one night, on a dark country road, it suddenly seemed like my headlights weren’t working — somehow the light didn’t have any reach. Well, there was a big reason why: The light was swallowed up by the giant, dark wall of moose in front of me. Fortunately, I was going 40 mph so it wasn’t too hard to slow down and stop. This thing dwarfed my tiny Corolla; I was just about looking up at the moose. In a few moments, it moved to the right and ran up through a cow pasture, and was gone. 

Encounters like this are more common in late summer. As Vermont wildlife officials explained in a recent warning, these impressive animals are more likely to be crossing roadways at this time of year, especially after dark or early in the morning, because this is breeding season for moose.

“We are asking drivers to be especially careful and for people to enjoy watching moose from a distance,” said Justin Stedman, Vermont Game Warden major, in a statement. “Moose can be unpredictable and dangerous if you get too close and they feel cornered or get irritated.”

Motorists hit 49 moose on Vermont highways during 2021 and 23 so far this year, according to the state. With these moose on the move, state wildlife officials are recommending the following ways to avoid them on the road: 

• Always be aware of the danger — moose cross the road randomly, as well as at their regular crossings.

• Increase your roadside awareness and reduce your speed when you see MOOSE CROSSING signs along the highway.  When on secondary roads, the recommended speed is 40 mph or less in these moose crossing areas.

• Drive defensively and don't overdrive your headlights.  Moose are more active at night and early morning, and they are difficult to see because of their dark color.

• If you see a moose ahead, slow down or stop.  Trying to speed past them before they can move can be a serious mistake.

Additionally, here are some Vermont highway sections most frequented by moose:

• Rt.105 from Island Pond to Bloomfield

• Rt.114 from East Burke to Canaan

• Rt.2 from Lunenburg to East St. Johnsbury

• Interstate 91 at Sheffield Heights

• Interstate 89 from Bolton to Montpelier

• Rt. 12 from Worcester to Elmore

• Rt 118 near Belvidere Corners and the Rt. 109 intersection.

— Gareth Henderson