Newfoundland & Labrador Moose Statistics

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The average life span of a moose is approximately 12 years. There are about 125,000 moose on the island of Newfoundland, and most highways go through moose habitat.

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Moose are unpredictable and can move very fast. If you see one on or near a roadway, slow down immediately and prepare to stop. Be sure the moose is well away from the roadway before resuming.

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On average there are over 700 moose vehicle accidents in the province, involving several human deaths, not including accidents under $1000 or near misses.

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Hunters have a moose kill ratio of about 73%. Out of the 33,000 licenses, about 20,000 are filled. Since 40,000 calves are born each year, the resulting population is growing.

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Accident Occurrences

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While accidents are reported year-round, more than 70% occur between May and October. The three most critical months are June, July, and August.

The majority of accidents occur between dusk and dawn. This is the time when driver visibility is severely limited by darkness, and when moose are most active. Most accidents occur on clear nights. So to avoid an accident, when you drive, think Moose!
 

 

Most of the Provincial highway system runs through good moose habitat. Thus, a driver can expect to encounter moose while traveling on any section of the Trans Canada Highway (TCH) or on any secondary roads.

Many accidents occur on straight stretches of roadway.

More accidents occur on certain sections of the roadway. These HIGH-RISK areas are marked with moose crossing warning signs as illustrated.

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Source: Gov of NL

Moose Accident Map

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​This map includes the approximate locations of more than 700 moose-vehicle collisions in Newfoundland and Labrador.