Maine to Cut Moose Hunt Permits to Lowest Level in Years

Maine wildlife officials are considering issuing the fewest number of moose hunting permits since 2003 this year.

The hunt for the massive animals is one of Maine's fall traditions, but winter ticks have hit the herd hard. But Maine moose biologist Lee Kantar says the proposed cut in permits has more to do with the state wildlife department reaching its moose population goals in many parts of Maine. The proposed reduction would decrease permits from 3,095 to 2,815.

Last year 2,022 hunters succeeded in getting a moose. The highest rate of success was in Aroostook County in far northern Maine.

The 2015 moose hunt is divided into four sessions. The first starts Sept. 28 and the final one ends Nov. 7. There is also a "resident only day" on Halloween.