The 2021 Maine moose permit lottery application process is open! Applications for the moose permit lottery are accepted online only.

To apply online, go to mefishwildlife.com and fill out the online moose permit application. There, you will be able to indicate several preferences, including which wildlife management districts (WMD) you are willing to accept a permit in, and if you would accept a permit in another WMD if your name is drawn and all of your top choices are filled. You will also be able to select your preferred hunting season, whether or not you would accept an antlerless permit, and your choice of a sub-permittee.

New in 2021, the Department is proposing an adaptive unit hunt to determine if lowering the moose population density in the western side of WMD 4 can lessen the impacts of winter tick. Applicants will be asked if they want to apply for an adaptive unit hunt permit when completing the application.

Applications must be completed by 11:59 pm (ET) on May 13, 2021.

The virtual 2021 moose lottery permit drawing will take place June 12, 2021.

Virtual Moose Permit Drawing
Saturday, June 12 from 1 – 4:30pm

Join us virtually as we announce the lucky recipients of a 2021 Maine moose hunting permit! If you miss the live virtual drawing you will be able to see the results online at 6:00 pm on June 12. To watch the drawing click here.

Additional online events inspired by the annual Moose Hunting Lottery Festival will be posted closer to the event. Learn more at mefishwildlife.com/mooselottery

Studying Maine’s moose
Maine’s moose population is stable in its core habitat range. However, the proliferation of winter tick due to climate change is impacting the health and reproduction of the moose population throughout Maine and much of North America. MDIFW’s goal for managing moose into the future is to have a healthier moose population where reproduction is higher, calf survival is greater, and parasites (such as winter tick) are lower.

MDIFW biologists have been closely monitoring and studying the impact of winter tick since 2014. Although adult moose survival remains high, winter tick is the leading cause of death for moose less than one year of age, and winter tick reduces birth rates for adult female moose.

Learn more about the ongoing study and adaptive unit hunt by visiting mefishwildlife.com/wintertick or listen to the Maine’s Moose podcast series at mefishwildlife.com/changers

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