Did you know that the moose is the largest and heaviest extant species of deer? Read on to learn more about these fascinating creatures.
Massive size
Moose are stately deer-like animals that live in northern parts of the United States and Canada. These massive creatures can grow over six feet tall (height at shoulder) and weigh up to 2,000 pounds. The antlers of male moose (bulls) can be as wide as six feet. Some antlers weigh more than 40 pounds.
Antler info
Moose have palmate antlers, meaning they have an open-handed shape. Moose antlers are also called paddles. They lose their paddles every winter after mating season and grow new ones each spring. Antlers come in handy for displaying or fighting other moose to establish breeding areas. Frequently, moose will back away from a fight when its challenger has a more impressive rack of antlers. The antlers are covered in what looks like velvet, which helps insulate them. Moose antlers are a good predictor of age, with bulls in their prime having the most impressive looking ones. As moose age and become older, their antlers will decline in grandeur.
Moose habits
Moose are solitary creatures and do not form herds. They live in cool-climate forests that are close to water sources like fresh lakes, ponds, rivers and marshes. Their sturdy build enables them to survive harsh winter conditions and navigate the toughest terrain. They primarily eat vegetation, including grasses, herbs, shrubs, twigs, and bark. Per Mental Floss, “Moose are browsers and will casually devour 73 pounds of food a day in the summer and 34 pounds in the winter.” Moose are excellent swimmers and divers. They can stay underwater for 50 seconds while feeding on aquatic vegetation.
Strength
Moose are symbolic of strength, power, determination, and speed. In Native American cultures, moose are associated with calmness, generosity, and good fortune. They are typically good-natured and calm but make no mistake – they will protect their young and act defensively when threatened. Because of their immense size and power, they have few natural enemies. However, they have been known to defend themselves against other large predators like brown and black bears and wolves. Healthy moose can run up to 35 miles per hour. Their strong legs enable them to escape from or kick their enemies. For this reason, predators prefer to go after the young, sick, or older moose.
Mating & life
Moose typically mate in September during rutting season. Calves, or baby moose, are born in the springtime when food is abundant. Calves feed on emerging vegetation. Rutting bulls will travel to search for females (cows), and they may attract cows with the smell of their urine. Young moose stay with their mother for a year, then the yearlings will search for a new place to live. Moose can live for 20 years in the wild, but they usually live to be about 15.
Going strong
Moose once faced threats from humans mainly due to uncontrolled market hunting and destruction of habitat. However, after being reintroduced to some former habitats, moose populations are thriving in places such as Canada and New York state’s Adirondack Mountains. Moose are powerful creatures that are respected in many cultures and perceived as good omens. Perhaps you’ll be lucky enough to see one someday. Spotting a moose in the wilderness is a truly spectacular sight. If you do see one, maintain respectful distance, stay quiet, and let the moose pass by. Enjoy this video of a large moose who surprised hikers in Canada. If you like reading about animals, check out other articles in our nature series including The American alligator.