Characteristics of the moose population in central-eastern Poland

The study aimed to analyse the spatial structure of moose (Alces alces) in central-eastern Poland, taking into account the sexual structure and preferences regarding the composition of social groups. The study analysed the density of animals in forest and swamp areas. It was shown that moose strongly prefer forest areas. Moose hinds were most often observed moving with fawns and single females and males. Statistical analysis confirmed that the biotope preference of this species does not depend on the type of social group in which the animals migrate. On the territory of the Regional Directorate of State Forests in Lublin, the density of moose per 1,000 ha of forest and swamp area averaged 5.9 individuals. However, a disturbed sexual structure of this species in favour of females was observed, which translates directly into high reproductive success and consequently leads to an increase in the number of road collisions or damage not only to forest ecosystems but also to crops. Therefore, it would be appropriate to take actions aimed at minimizing the unfavorable consequences related to the unquestionable increase in the population of this largest representative of deer in Polan