Abstract North American moose (Alces alces) populations along the southern extent of their
range have been experiencing high levels of calf mortality in recent years. In New England,
this phenomenon has been linked to extensive blood loss resulting from extreme winter tick
(Dermacentor albipictus) parasitism. Moose are symbolic of the region and generate income
through tourism and the auction of hunting permits; thus, successive years of greater than
50% calf mortality (epizootics) are of concern to wildlife managers and others. It is …