Moose

Moose (Alces alces) is the largest species in the deer family, Cervidae. Moose are distinguished by the broad, flat (or palmate) antlers of the males; other members of the family have antlers with a dendritic ("twig-like") configuration. Moose typically inhabit boreal forests and temperate broadleaf and mixed forests of the Northern Hemisphere in temperate to subarctic climates.

Biology and Behaviour

Diet

Moose are herbivores and are capable of consuming many types of plant or fruit. The average adult moose needs to consume 9,770 kcal (40.9 MJ) per day to maintain its body weight. Much of a moose's energy is derived from terrestrial vegetation, mainly consisting of forbs and other non-grasses, and fresh shoots from trees such as willow and birch.

Reproduction

Moose mating occurs in September and October. The males are polygamous and will seek several females to breed with. During this time both sexes will call to each other. Males produce heavy grunting sounds that can be heard from up to 500 meters away, while females produce wail-like sounds.

Distribution and Habitat

Moose are found throughout northern North America. They occur throughout Alaska, Canada, the northeastern United States and as far south as the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. In Europe, moose are currently found in large numbers throughout Norway, Sweden, Finland, Latvia, Estonia, Poland, with more scattered populations in the southern Czech Republic, Belarus and northern Ukraine.

Human Interaction

Moose are an important economic resource in Canada, Scandinavia, and Russia, where they are harvested for meat, antlers, and hide. Their populations are also managed for the benefit of hunters, and viewing opportunities are an important part of the ecotourism industry in some areas.

See Also

• Deer
• Elk
• Reindeer

References

Moose Resources
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