Despite possessing ideal habitat conditions, the Adirondack region's moose population remains stagnant at 600-800 individuals—far below healthy population levels observed elsewhere. Emerging research points to parasitic infections as a primary obstacle to recovery.

A Historical Perspective

Historical records indicate moose once dominated the Adirondack ecosystem before nearly vanishing in the early 20th century due to habitat destruction and unregulated hunting. While modest recovery began during the 1980s, wildlife biologists now face a new challenge: parasitic infections transmitted by white-tailed deer.

The Parasite Problem

White-tailed deer serve as intermediate hosts for several parasites lethal to moose, including the brainworm Parelaphostrongylus tenuis. When moose contract these parasites, neurological damage manifests as disorientation, loss of motor coordination, and frequently, death. The region's dense white-tailed deer population—estimated at approximately 100,000—creates ideal conditions for parasite transmission.

Pathways to Recovery

Wildlife experts propose three key strategies for moose population restoration: First, implementing controlled reductions of white-tailed deer densities in critical moose habitats. Second, enhancing habitat quality through selective forestry practices that promote moose-preferred vegetation. Third, establishing comprehensive disease monitoring programs to track parasite prevalence and moose health indicators.

Additional research is urgently needed to fully understand parasite transmission dynamics and develop targeted interventions. Without decisive action, the Adirondack moose population may never reach sustainable levels, despite the region's ecological potential to support several thousand individuals.