ECOLOGY

Environment cold and temperate forests, hills and plains
Organization solitary or pair (adult and one young)
Treasure none

Moose are the largest members of the elk family, ranging in size from 4 1/2 feet to over 8 feet tall at the shoulder and weighing from 440 to over 1,000 pounds. Males have broad, flat antlers that can reach a length of 5 feet or more. These antlers are shed each year after mating season. The moose’s fur ranges from brown to black, changing to a dull gray in the winter months. They are excellent swimmers, often swimming into deep water to feed on aquatic plants.

Generally non-aggressive if left alone, moose can become quite aggressive if approached. They have poor eyesight, but excellent hearing, and tend to flee rather than fight as soon as would-be attackers are detected. If forced into combat, a moose attacks with its antlers or hooves.