Although they seem gentle like a horse, you wouldn't get a thrill ride like the scene in Wild America. Moose (alces alces) are the largest of the deer family (cervidae). When the moose was first discoverd by early colonists, it was called "moosh," which means "strips bark."
Alaska is home to the biggest population of Moose. The Northwestern Arctic of Alaska is extremely remote and the only way to access this great land is by bush aircraft. The moose dwelling in this region have the potential to grow outstanding antlers as well as body mass. Moose can also be found from Alaska to Canada, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Minnesota and the Rocky Mountain regions.
The biggest threat to moose are bears and wolves, who will prey on the very young and sick. Moose also have trouble walking through deep snow, giving hunters an advantage while tracking them using snowshoes. Deep snow pushes moose to lower ground and populated areas. It isn't uncommon to see moose in a town or on highways causing potential risk to themselves and people.
Moose can stand up to seven feet at the shoulder and weigh up to 1,600 pounds, with females weighing up to 1,000 pounds. Their coats are dark brown to black. The bull possesses magnificent antlers. These spreads are shaped with large flat areas and thin projections of which can reach a span of six feet! Gestation is eight months and a cow gives birth in the spring to one and sometimes twin calves. The young calf will stay with its mother for two years. Did you know that moose droppings are sometimes turned into craft items?
Moose, of course, are hunted for their meat which can bring in 500 pounds for the freezer. I found a couple of recipes for those of you that like to eat the meat or may want to try it. If you have some of your own recipes you'd like to share, please do.
Moose can get very aggressive if they are provoked or are tending to their young. They will charge you and these animals like to kick. If you've ever been kicked by a horse, then you know the feeling, only this is more brutal. They are considered slow but have been recorded at speeds of 35 mph. Most of the time you have a chance of getting away as they will chase and then retreat but don't take any unnecessary chances.
