Wildlife changes with the seasons

Wildlife behavior shifts throughout the year, and those changes directly impact what hikers might encounter.

Many species are crepuscular, meaning they’re most active around dawn and dusk. If you’re hiking early in the morning or later in the day, you’re more likely to cross paths with wildlife.

Spring is one of the most active times of the year. It’s the season of young wildlife, and that often means more protective behavior from adults. Coyotes, for example, may follow hikers—not to attack, but to guide them away from a den. In that situation, it is important to stay calm and not give the coyote any reason to believe that you may be a threat.

In the fall, moose rut (mating season) increases risk. Bulls are more aggressive and less predictable as they compete for mates.

Winter doesn’t mean wildlife disappears. Bears typically hibernate, but during mild winters, they may still be active. Other animals are conserving energy, which makes it especially important not to disturb them.

Common mistakes hikers make

Most wildlife issues come down to human behavior.

Getting too close, trying to interact or underestimating animals are all common mistakes. In most cases, wildlife will avoid people, but once that space gets smaller between parties, the situation can change quickly.

Bear encounters

Black bears in New Hampshire are generally not aggressive, but hikers should still take encounters seriously.

Keep your distance
Make your presence known by talking in a calm voice
Maintain eye contact
Back away slowly—don’t run

Some bears may bluff charge, which can be alarming but is often meant to scare rather than attack. Staying calm and giving the bear space is key.

Dogs can escalate encounters. Bears may feel threatened, especially if a dog approaches them. Keeping dogs leashed is the best way to avoid a dangerous situation.

Moose encounters

Moose are often perceived as calm, but they can be one of the more dangerous animals hikers encounter.

Give them plenty of space
Never corner a moose
If you feel too close, you probably are
Go wide around them or turn back if needed

Warning signs include ears pinned back, which can signal agitation.

Risk is highest in:

Spring, when cows are protective of calves
Fall, during rut season when bulls are more aggressive

If a moose charges, get behind something solid like a tree or put distance between you and the animal as quickly as possible.

Leave young wildlife alone

It’s common to come across young animals in the spring. While they may appear abandoned, that’s rarely the case.

Parents are typically nearby and will return once people leave the area. The best approach is simple: leave them alone and keep moving.

Food storage

Improper food storage is one of the fastest ways to create dangerous wildlife interactions.

When camping:

Use bear boxes when available
Store food in a bear canister
Hang food at least 10 feet high and four feet out from the trunk
Never leave food unsecured

A few simple rules to always follow

Wildlife safety doesn’t need to be complicated. A few principles go a long way:

Keep your distance
Never feed wildlife
Stay aware—especially at dawn and dusk
Give animals space to move away
Keep dogs under control

Along with those rules, carrying the essentials, letting someone know your plan and having a hikeSafe Card are all simple steps that can make a big difference if the hike doesn’t go as expected.