The Scoop
Long Head, Large Antlers
Moose, also known as Arctic elk, roam the forest areas close to the Arctic tundra. There are actually six different subspecies of moose found in the sub-arctic forests today. Moose have long legs, a heavy body, small tail, drooping nose, and a “bell” or dewlap under the chin. Their color can range from golden brown to almost black – depending on the season and age of the moose. Male moose have enormous antlers that they shed after the mating season and grow afresh every year. It takes 3 to 5 months for a new set of antlers to develop fully. Female moose on the other hand, do not have antlers.
Moose are big animals and are the largest members of the deer family. Moose can be up to 7 feet tall and are very heavy indeed. They can weigh up to 1500 lbs – which is about the weight of seven or eight normal adults. Moose feed on grass and twigs. Because of this they are also sometimes called twig eaters. They are herbivorous animals and spend their time foraging for vegetation and branches to munch on.
Moose are hunted by humans and also by large animals like bears, cougars and arctic wolves. However, there are still plenty of moose left in the wild and they are not endangered in any way. Moose are not aggressive, but if they are provoked they can attack you – so take care when you are around a moose!
