Silent walks in the North Country. Where are the moose and ruffed grouse?

My wife, Linda, and I have walked the logging roads of Northern New Hampshire and Western Maine for many decades, but things have changed. Almost totally gone are the loud eruptions of partridge (ruffed grouse) as they took flight - and the startling crashing of moose bounding away - or in one case - coming right at us.

Moose in our driveway

Estimates by wildlife authorities show the populations of both moose and partridge have roughly been cut in half from their peak years. The major reason for decline in the moose population has been cited as the proliferation of winter ticks which feed on the blood of the hooved creatures. Hundreds, or even thousands, of ticks often feed off one animal. Young moose are most vulnerable.

Partridge that flew onto our porch - released unharmed

The decline in ruffed grouse is generally attributed to a loss of habitat. Weather, particularly wet springs, also plays a role - while predation by coyotes is certainly suspect. Our frequent walks continue, but we miss the sight and sound of these two wild creatures.

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