Moose (Alces alces)

Size

• Moose are the largest members of the deer family in the world.
• Bulls can weigh over 450 kilograms (1000 pounds) and stand 2.3 metres (7.5 feet) at the shoulder.
• Cows average about 350 kilograms (770 pounds).

Appearance

• Moose are easily identified by their large size and dark colouration which varies from dark brown to black.
• Other distinguishing features of both sexes are:
  • Broad muzzle
  • Shoulder hump
  • A loose fold of skin called a “bell” which hangs under the throat
• Bulls have broad, palm-like antlers that can measure as much as 1.8 metres (6 feet) from tip to tip, and together both may weigh up to 40 kilograms (88 pounds).

• In Alberta, moose are common throughout most eco-regions, except for the prairie and parkland.
• In recent years, moose numbers have been increasing in the parkland.

Habitat

• Areas of preferred habitat include:
  • Muskegs
  • Brushy meadows
  • Small groves of aspen or coniferous trees, particularly where such habitat adjoins lakes, ponds or streams

Food

• During the spring and summer, moose feed on aquatic plants and browse on the tender shoots of willow, birch and poplar.
• In the spring, moose also seek aspen bark, aquatic vegetation and minerals from natural salt licks.
• During the winter, moose browse near the edges of dense forests where there is less snow.

Breeding Behaviour

• The rut usually occurs from mid-September to mid-October. Calves are born the following spring.

Status

Moose are classified as Secure in the General Status of Alberta Wild Species report. See:

• General Status

Hunting

See details in the Alberta Guide to Hunting Regulations. To view the guide online or to order a printed copy, visit the My Wild Alberta website at:

• Hunting: Regulations