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Fall Decrease in Observed Wildlife in GMF
The hunters who help manage the deer population in GMF monitor wildlife as well, logging 1066 hours of observations in Fall 2022. From their reports, GMF established that this year spongy moth caterpillars (Lymantria dispar dispar, formerly called gypsy moth) on oak trees brought about a reduced yield of acorns. Coupled with a low beech nut crop, this reduction in food sources may have contributed to the sighting of only one bear, four coyotes, two bobcats, one ruffed grouse, and twelve turkeys from September through the middle of December.
Interestingly, one monitor discovered a complete moose skeleton on top of Blackberry Hill; the skull and antlers were brought to the Forestry Office for study. Accurate aging would have required sending the teeth to a lab for analysis of the rings, much like dating a tree However, as a moose grows and continues to feed on woody plants, the teeth wear down distinctively allowing age estimates by comparison to known tooth wear and tear. This was a relatively young bull.
Using footage from the network of trail cameras, GMF staff were able to identify the specific moose whose skeleton was found from its antler pattern. The size of the “bell” or dewlap, largest in young males, suggests the moose was 2.5 to 3.5 years old. The cause of death is unknown.
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