Caution to drivers: Moose on the move

September 10, 2021  |  By Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department 

A moose spotted along Vermont Rt. 100 in Waterbury Center in 2020. File photo by Gordon Miller

Fall is breeding season for moose and drivers need to be alert and cautious as moose are on the move and likely to be crossing roadways, especially after dark or early in the morning. 

Motorists hit 39 moose on Vermont highways during 2020 and 41 so far this year,” said State Game Warden Lt. Carl Wedin.  “We are asking drivers to be especially careful and for people to enjoy watching moose from a distance.  Moose can be unpredictable and dangerous if you get too close and they feel cornered or get irritated,” Wedin said. 

Some tips to avoid hitting moose: 

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 moose-crossing areas.

Vt. Fish & Wildlife photo by Benjamin Young

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.

Many of the Vermont highway sections most frequented by moose are in eastern Vermont and the Northeast Kingdom although locally, the stretch of Interstate 89 between Bolton and Montpelier is an active wildlife crossing area. Also Vermont Route 100 in Waterbury Center near the town line with Stowe is an area with frequent moose sightings. 

State records show that 19 people have died in motor vehicle collisions with moose on Vermont highways since 1985.