In Newfoundland, moose are a familiar sight along highways, trails and wooded areas. While these animals may appear calm or even curious, they are large, powerful and can react unpredictably when startled or approached too closely.
Understanding how to respond during an encounter can help keep both you and the animal safe.
This article is for general knowledge only and is based on information from wildlife experts and provincial safety guidance. Behaviour can vary from one animal to the next, and situations may require judgment and distance. Images are for illustrative purposes only.
Keep A Safe Distance
If you see a moose, stay back at least 50 metres or more if the animal seems agitated. Moose are larger than most people realise, and even a calm one can charge if it feels threatened.
Use binoculars or a camera zoom instead of approaching for a closer look. Remember that these animals may appear docile, but they can move surprisingly fast when provoked. Maintaining distance protects both you and the wildlife from unnecessary stress or danger.
Stay Calm And Avoid Sudden Movements
When a moose notices you, stay still and quiet. Loud noises or quick movements can trigger defensive behaviour that puts everyone at risk.
Back away slowly while keeping your eyes on the animal without making direct eye contact, which it might interpret as a challenge. Your calm demeanour signals that you are not a threat. Panicking or running could escalate the situation, so controlled movements are your best strategy for a peaceful retreat from the area.
Never Feed Or Approach A Moose
Feeding wildlife encourages dangerous behaviour and can lead to aggressive encounters down the road. Moose that associate humans with food are more likely to approach cars or hikers in the future, increasing the risk for everyone.
Always let wild animals find their own food sources. Human food is not suitable for moose and can harm their health. Respecting their space and natural diet keeps the ecosystem balanced and prevents habituation that could turn deadly.
Recognize Warning Signs
A moose ready to charge will lower its head, flatten its ears, and raise the hair on its neck. If you see these signs, put a large object like a tree or boulder between you and the animal immediately.
Avoid turning your back or running, which may provoke a chase response. These body language cues are your warning to take action. Understanding what an agitated moose looks like could save your life in a critical moment.
Be Extra Cautious During Rutting Season
In the fall, male moose enter the rutting season and become more aggressive as they compete for mates. During this period, even typically calm animals can charge without warning.
Give moose even more space at this time of year, especially if you see two males nearby. Hormones drive unpredictable behaviour, making autumn encounters particularly risky. Plan your outdoor activities with this seasonal shift in mind and always stay alert when hiking or driving through moose habitat.
Watch Out While Driving
Newfoundland has one of the highest rates of moose-related vehicle collisions in Canada. Drive cautiously, especially at dawn and dusk when visibility is low and moose are most active.
If you spot a moose on the road, slow down gradually and wait for it to move. Honking or flashing lights may confuse it and cause the animal to freeze or move unpredictably. Patience and reduced speed can prevent a devastating crash that endangers lives.
If A Moose Charges
If a moose does charge, try to place a tree or rock between you and the animal as quickly as possible. Moose often bluff charge, but if it continues, run in a zigzag pattern toward cover.
Once it stops pursuing, stay hidden until it leaves the area completely. Do not assume the danger has passed just because the moose paused. Wait several minutes before cautiously making your way to safety, always keeping obstacles between you and the animal.
