Wildlife

Insects

Swarms of black flies and ticks are a problem throughout the spring and summer. Thus, you should always have insect repellent, which will keep the worst of them away.

You should be especially cautious of ticks because lyme disease has been reported in New Hampshire. A daily inspection is a good habit, as the quick removal of ticks will minimize the risk of disease.

More information can be found on the EPA and CDC websites.

If you see a wild animal - especially a moose or bear - exercise caution. Do not approach the animal. If you're in your car and want to observe the animal, pull over carefully and stay in your car.

Unfortunately, even the innocent act of observing wildlife can have a great impact on the animal if it is not done properly.

Enjoy wildlife from a distance. The goal of successful wildlife watching is to see animals without interrupting their normal behavior. Wildlife send clear signals you are too close when they stop feeding and raise their head sharply, move away, change direction of travel or appear nervous or aggressive.

Don't feed the animals. While it may seem exciting at the time to have an animal eat out your hand, there are potential serious consequences. Some animals that become accustomed to handouts may lose their natural fear of humans, and become aggressive.

Never chase or harass animals. In some cases, valuable energy resources needed for survival are used when animals are chased.

Don't pick up orphaned or sick animals. Wild animals rarely abandon their young. In most cases the adults are nearby, waiting for visitors to leave before they return.

Be considerate when approaching wildlife that is already being viewed. A loud noise or quick movement may spoil the experience for everyone.



If you see any type of unusual behavior, such as an animal pacing back and forth, or signs of aggression, contact the NH Fish & Game Dispatcher at (603) 271-3361 or your local police.

Preventing bear problems: When black bears are fed, they quickly learn unbearlike behaviors. Sadly, this may lead to serious, often deadly, results for the bear. You can prevent this by following these simple guidelines:

Never intentionally feed bears to attract them.

Maintain a clean campsite. Leave No Trace

Put food scraps in closed containers, not in the campfire.

Do not cook or eat in your tent.

Keep food and cooking gear separate from your sleeping area.

Keep food in a closed-up vehicle or hang food at least 10 feet off the ground and 5 feet out on a limb that will not support a bear.

What to do if confronted by a bear: If loud noises, sticks and stones don't scare off the bear, back away slowly. NEVER turn your back or run away from a bear as this can trigger its hunting instincts. Lie face down on the ground with your legs spread and your fingers interlaced behind your head. Your spread legs will keep the bear from rolling you over and exposing your abdomen, while your hands and fingers will protect your head and neck.



Preventing moose problems: Each year nearly 200 moose are killed on New Hampshire highways. Remember to "Brake for Moose" when driving on our highways.