Drivers, Brake For Moose And Deer This Fall
Because fall is the breeding season for both moose and white-tailed deer, the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (DFW) reminds motorists to be mindful of increased deer and moose activity, especially during early morning and evening hours. September and October is the peak of the breeding season for Massachusetts' small but expanding moose population in central and western Massachusetts. The breeding season (also known as "the rut") for white-tailed deer closely follows the moose breeding season from late October through early December. Because moose have no natural predators in Massachusetts and are protected by law from hunting, these large (500-1,000 lbs) members of the deer family are unconcerned as they move through populated areas. During the mating season this indifference is magnified by the "tunnel-vision" created by the urge to reproduce.
Be aware and heed "Moose and Deer Crossing" signs erected by highway departments. Motorists are advised to slow down and drive defensively should a moose or deer be spotted on or by the road. Moose are less likely to move from the road than deer; braking for moose is your best policy! Police and other departments involved in moose or deer/car collisions are reminded that while drivers are allowed by law to keep white-tailed deer they have hit, only the DFW or the Environmental Police can make decisions regarding the disposition of moose involved in vehicle collisions. All moose or deer/vehicle collisions should be reported to the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife District offices. The Environmental Police Radio Room can be reached at 1-800-632-8075.
Because fall is the breeding season for both moose and white-tailed deer, the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (DFW) reminds motorists to be mindful of increased deer and moose activity, especially during early morning and evening hours. September and October is the peak of the breeding season for Massachusetts' small but expanding moose population in central and western Massachusetts. The breeding season (also known as "the rut") for white-tailed deer closely follows the moose breeding season from late October through early December. Because moose have no natural predators in Massachusetts and are protected by law from hunting, these large (500-1,000 lbs) members of the deer family are unconcerned as they move through populated areas. During the mating season this indifference is magnified by the "tunnel-vision" created by the urge to reproduce.
Be aware and heed "Moose and Deer Crossing" signs erected by highway departments. Motorists are advised to slow down and drive defensively should a moose or deer be spotted on or by the road. Moose are less likely to move from the road than deer; braking for moose is your best policy! Police and other departments involved in moose or deer/car collisions are reminded that while drivers are allowed by law to keep white-tailed deer they have hit, only the DFW or the Environmental Police can make decisions regarding the disposition of moose involved in vehicle collisions. All moose or deer/vehicle collisions should be reported to the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife District offices. The Environmental Police Radio Room can be reached at 1-800-632-8075.











