Many motorists in the area have been spotting Moose along the highways and in the fields.

Conservation Officer Lindsey Leko said that doesn’t always mean there are more moose in the area than usual.

“The buds on the trees are a little bit more succulent, so they’re going to want to start browsing on them,” he noted. “We’re pretty dry here, so now that the days are getting warmer, we’re going to see the moose try to find water so they can keep cool and stay out of the bugs, so I tend to think we’re just seeing them move around, I don’t necessarily think it’s an increase in the population.”

An impact with a moose, however, can prove to be much more dangerous than with a deer.

Leko also said slowing down is the best precaution for avoiding impact.

“They’re most active in the early mornings and at night, and because they’re so big and they’re dark brown, black, you just don’t see them.”

“Probably the best advice would be to slow down, you shouldn’t be speeding at night or going faster than you can handle your vehicle,” he said.

“Most people who have had impacts with them say they just come out of nowhere.”

Leko also offered advice for what to do if a moose is nearby.

“You want to give the moose their distance,” he said. “We’re getting into June when cows are going to start giving birth to their calves, so they’re going to be very protective, and they can run 35, 40 miles an hour, so they can close that gap quickly. So giving the animal the respect it commands is some good advice as well.”

In other words, no selfies with the moose.