There's the man for the job!
Posted on 02/25/2006 11:42:54 AM PST by Kurt_Hectic
Near-record amounts of snow this winter have made life more difficult than usual for Norway's large moose and deer population.
There's more than a meter of snow even in the forested areas surrounding Oslo, and that makes it especially difficult for the large animals to get around and find enough food.
Wildlife experts explain that the moose especially have relatively heavy bodies and thin legs. They sink down in the deep snow and have to use enormous amounts of energy to navigate through the drifts.
That makes them even more hungry, at a time when it's hard for them to find food. Several animals have been found dead recently, either of starvation or over-exertion.
"They simply can't manage in the amount of snow we've had this year," Erik Lund of the Directorate for Nature Management told news bureau NTB.
Lund noted that several recent winters with relatively little snow boosted the population of moose and deer, because easier access to food allowed even weaker animals to survive.
Highway hazards The deep snow in the hills and forests also has prompted moose and deer to seek out ski trails and roads, where it's easier for them to walk. That has led to a major increase in the number of animals being hit by cars.
Officials in Eidsvoll township alone say they're getting reports of at least one collision between moose and cars every single day. Highway authorities are urging motorists to exercise extreme caution, following 14 collisions since New Year.
Last Sunday, a confused and frightened moose wandered onto a highway near Sollihøgda, west of Oslo. Motorists fortunately spotted the moose in time, and drove slowly behind it, keeping their distance, until it finally jumped over a barrier and disappeared back into the woods.
Wildlife officials in Oslo have also been trying to set up feeding stations on the fringe of the forest, in an attempt to discourage the animals from venturing into populated areas in search of food.
(EDITOR'S NOTE: Moose in Norway are called "elg," and we often hear from readers who contend that "elg" should be translated as "elk." The elk found, for example, in the US and Canada, however, is known as "hjort" in Norway. To avoid confusion, we're sticking with moose.)
How can this problem be fixed?
Increase funding FOR global-warming!
I think we need an "Adopt A Moose" program.
Those who are adopted get to come to the USA and live with you.
However, I wouldn't suggest adopting one if you have a sister.
This could be very series and hugh
At least there isn't a moose biting anyone's sister...
Do not eat the brown snow!!
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