Moose need space during cold months

JACKSON, Wyo. — Colder temperatures and new snow means it's a challenging time for moose populations living in and around the Tetons.

According to the National Park Service (NPS), moose survive the winter by using the least amount of energy so they can maintain fat reserves. Maintaining reserves is especially crucial for females to successfully give birth in the spring.

The animal's long legs allow for better travel over snow, but they still have a difficult time conserving energy as temperatures plummet . Snow will bury their food sources, causing them to scrape snow with their hooves to search for plants and shrubs.

"You may even see them along roadsides searching for salt!" the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said via Facebook.

When seeing moose along the roads, standing in open sage brush flats or along wooded areas, the NPS asks visitors to give them plenty of space. People are to maintain at least 25 yards from the animals.

"Visitors can safely enjoy watching wildlife by being respectful of their need for space, staying clear of their sensitive habitats and allowing them to maintain their vital energy reserves," the NPS said on its website.