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Moose

This massive-bodied creature is supported by exceptionally long and slender legs, has a long muzzle with a large hanging nose, and flowing beard-like skin extending from the throat. The moose is just one of the many interesting animals that call Alaska home. Moose are the largest member of the deer family. Calves weigh from 25 to 28 pounds when born and may grow up to over 1,000 pounds. Antlers grow only on the males and look like a human hand with fingers spread. The antlers are covered by skin, or velvet, with a profuse vascular system. By late August, the velvet is rubbed off against tree branches. The newly exposed bloodstained white antlers later become dark tan in color. One of the largest sets of moose antlers was found in the interior of Alaska and had a spread of 78 inches, which is six and a half feet. Antler spread is measured as the distance between outside farthest points. Size and form of antlers vary greatly between individual moose.

Group sizes of moose in Alaska may exceed 30 animals during the fall breeding season, particularly in alpine habitat. In the winter, individuals will break off from the group depending on the food supply. Moose are not vocal during most of the year. However, during breeding season the males make croaking or barking sounds and the females make quavering moans. The females also may grunt at their calves and young calves may cry when frightened or distressed. Moose are generally mild tempered and not excitable. They frequently tolerate the close approach of vehicles or humans without retreating. However, during the rutting season when the males become aggressive toward each other, some will become threatening toward humans. During the rut, many people have been treed while trying to get a better picture. Females can also be hostile when protecting their young.

Moose eat a variety of plants, ranging from moss to trees. In winters with low snowfall and when river habitat is lacking, they prefer the young forest regrowth created by fire and clear cutting. During periods of deep snowfall, they tend to use evergreen forests or river stands with tall willows, cottonwoods, and aspens.

The known enemies of moose are wolves and bears, which attack the young calves. Even domestic dogs can bring down a calf in the winter by running the mother to exhaustion in the snow. Another enemy that has been known to attack a swimming moose in southeast Alaska is the orca whale. When populations get too large, moose will migrate to new areas. The first migration usually takes place between the mainland and the nearest island. Once high population numbers are reached on that island, moose migrate again to islands further from the mainland and continue colonizing new places. Among the deer family, moose are considered second only to caribou in their swimming abilities. So, don't be surprised to see one of these massive animals calmly strolling along the highway or swimming between the islands.

For more information about moose, view the Alaska Department of Fish and Game Wildlife Notebook Series.