IMPACTS OF WILDLIFE VIEWING ON MOOSE USE OF A ROADSIDE SALT LICK.

In northern New Hampshire, we examined the use patterns of moose visiting a roadside salt lick before (1996) and after (1997–1999) a blind was built specifically to view moose at the lick. Moose visitation patterns were monitored with trail monitors equipped with cameras placed on trails leading into the study and control salt licks. There was no difference in frequency of use and time of use at the study and control sites in any year. Nocturnal use was higher than diurnal use; use was greatest at 2200–2400 and 0400–0600 hours at both sites. Reduced use of the trail closest to the blind indicated that placement of the blind probably altered access patterns of certain moose. A trend in 1998–1999 toward more visits during early morning than peak afternoon viewing time indicated that assessment of viewing opportunity warrants further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]