CONCORD, N.H. —
Wildlife officials say the recent sighting of a moose in a mall parking lot in Concord is a reminder for people to keep their distance from the animals.
Video taken at the Steeplegate Mall over the weekend shows a moose trotting through the parking lot.
Fish and Game Department officials said moose are known to venture out of the woods this time of year and can find themselves in public areas. The moose are trying to get away from all the ticks in the deep woods.
Once it gets too hot, the animals will head back for the trees, officials said.
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Officials said this is also the time of year when there are more moose strikes on the highway.
Fish and Game Capt. Michael Eastman said the animals are majestic but should be admired from a distance. Like any wild animal, they can be aggressive.
“What we always tell people is don’t approach them. Don’t touch them,” he said. “This is like a 500- to 1,000-pound animal. If it’s acting weirdly or approaching you, it’s not a pet. You don’t want to touch it. It’ll become a dangerous situation.”
Anyone who sees a moose walking in circles or behaving unusually should give Fish and Game a call.