Moose are the largest members of the deer family. They stand at around six feet tall (from hoof to shoulder), and weigh in at more than 450 kilograms. That’s more than 70 stone!
These gargantuan creatures call the colder climates of the northern states of America, Canada, Russia and Europe home. Here, they graze on vast amounts of leaves, twigs and aquatic vegetation, consuming nearly 30kg a day!
Why are moose important?
Moose are vital in shaping young forest and keeping plant populations under control.
Moose are also important prey for predators.
Wolves, grizzly bears, black bears, and orcas have all been known to prey on moose. In some remote areas, the Isle Royale National Park in Michigan for example, moose are the only prey available, so their survival is essential for the continuation of the natural food chain.
Although we humans don’t need moose for our survival, we still needlessly kill them.
Hundreds of thousands of moose are killed each year by recreational hunters who see moose antlers as the ultimate trophy. Spanning around five feet wide, these glorious bones fall off moose naturally every winter so that they can regrow them in the spring. Why kill a moose for its antlers when they fall of annually anyway?
Hundreds of moose are also killed annually in road traffic.
What about their habitat?
Although moose are not widely considered endangered, climate change and urbanisation are having huge effects on their population and habitat. Destructive logging, mining, resource extraction, industrial activities, and recreational events as snowmobiling all contribute to the decline in the amount and quality of moose habitat.
What does the future look like for moose?
Moose are large animals and they need space to survive.
If we don’t create room for them to thrive, their population is sure to keep declining.
Help us to raise awareness for this majestic animal so that we may continue to enjoy their presence and many benefits for years to come.
