Reports of a moose wandering around New Milford started coming in Monday night.  Around 7 o'clock this morning the moose was spotted in the parking lot and around New Milford Hospital.  Sightings were also reported near the Canterbury School and Route 202.

(Photo from Marty Moose Facebook Page)

New Milford police were able to direct the moose to a wooded area near the hospital.

(Photo from Marty Moose Facebook Page)

Residents are being warned to keep a safe distance from the moose and notify local authorities or DEEP of the spotting.  Drivers are urged to use extra caution and be observant while driving in areas where moose have been seen.  Moose near roadways pose a particular danger because once struck, they are more likely to collapse through a vehicle windshield due to their tall stance.  They are also difficult to see when driving at night because of their dark color.

Spokesman Dwayne Gardner says moose can present a serious threat to public safety under some circumstances and should not be approached.  Although usually shy, Gardner says moose can feel threatened and become aggressive when encountering people or pets.  They also may demonstrate unpredictable behavior if they wander into populated areas. 

Connecticut has a resident moose population estimated at 100 to 150 animals.  They are found most often in the northwestern and northeastern wooded corners of Connecticut.  In addition to sightings in New Milford, moose or the same one animal have been seen in Farmington and East Haddam.

Residents are encouraged to report moose sightings on the DEEP website.  Some area residents have also created a Facebook page for "Marty".