Bucksport Moose ‘Doris’ Spends Summer Days at Local Golf Course

Maine's most iconic mammal spent a good part of this summer hanging out at the Bucksport Golf Club, much ot the delight of those both on and off the course.

The moose, dubbed "Doris" by the club's staff, showed up a few weeks ago.

When she did -- during some particularly hot days -- she spent most of her time lying down, and it was clear she had an injured leg. But within a short time, she was up and about, eating and drinking -- and attracting attention.

That attention has come from more than just the club's golfers, who were careful to play around the meandering moose and, in general, keep their distance.

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Many people who heard about the visit via social media would park near the course just to catch a glimpse of the Pine Tree State's official state animal.

"All kinds of people stopped," said Dawn Castell, a volunteer assistant in the club's pro shop. "Lots of people hadn't seen a moose, and this was their chance."

The chance might indeed have passed, since Doris hasn't been seen at the club for about two days, when she crossed the road and didn't return. But Castell said that might be for the best.

"We enjoyed her while she was here, but at the same time, we want to make sure she's safe," said Castell, adding that state wildlife officials had discussed relocating the moose if she stayed around too long.

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Whether Doris returns to the Bucksport Golf Club remains to be seen. But even if she's moved on, her visit was well documented on social media -- and in the memories of those who had the chance to see such an impressive animal.