Massachusetts Drivers Warned About Amorous Moose
BOSTON (CBS/AP) — Wildlife experts are warning Massachusetts drivers to watch for moose activity in the roadways as September marks the start of the animals' breeding season.
The state Division of Fisheries and Wildlife reports male moose will often chase female moose across roads because of their urge to reproduce.
Experts on moose behavior say the males get "tunnel vision" and become unaware of traffic while pursuing potential mates.
Wildlife officials say moose don't have natural predators in Massachusetts and are legally protected from hunters, so they don't perceive threats while moving through populated areas.
But at 500 to 1,000 pounds, with long legs and top-heavy bodies, experts warn that moose can cause significant damage in collisions. Car crashes with moose can be particularly deadly for motorists, with the vehicle knocking the legs out from under the animal and the top of its body slamming through the windshield.
They say drivers should try to brake upon seeing moose, which are less likely than deer to move from the road.
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