The moose (Alces alces) is a very large member of the deer family and is commonly called the elk in parts of Europe (elk). Some taxonomists treat North American populations as a separate species, often referred to as Alces americanus, but many authorities retain a single species with geographic subspecies. Male moose are bulls, females are cows and young animals are calves. The plural form of moose is "moose."

Physical characteristics

Moose are unmistakable for their size and build. They have long legs, a humped shoulder, a drooping nose and a short tail. Bulls develop broad, palmate antlers each year that can be used for display and sparring during the rut; antlers are shed annually. Coat colour ranges from dark brown to nearly black, and calves are born with lighter colouring and spots in some populations for camouflage.

Range and habitat

Moose occur across northern landscapes in Europe, Asia and North America. In Europe and western Asia they occupy boreal and mixed forests; in Asia their range extends across northern regions (Asia), and in North America they live in Canada, Alaska and the northern United States (North America). They prefer areas with abundant water and wetlands such as lakes (lakes), marshes (marshes) and swamps (swamps), where they browse on aquatic and shoreline plants.

Diet, behaviour and reproduction

Moose are browsers rather than grazers: they feed on leaves, twigs and aquatic vegetation. They are generally solitary animals except for cows with calves and for temporary aggregations around rich food sources. The rut occurs in autumn when bulls compete for mates. Cows give birth to one or two calves in spring; calves remain hidden for weeks and are defended by the mother.

Predators, human interactions and conservation

  • Predators include wolves and large bears; humans are significant predators through hunting and vehicle collisions.
  • Moose are valued for hunting, meat and as a charismatic wildlife species, but they can damage crops and occasionally cause dangerous road collisions.
  • Conservation status varies by region; habitat loss, climate change and parasites affect some populations.

Notable facts: moose are adapted to cold, wet environments, can swim well and may feed submerged. Their large antlers and size make them a familiar symbol of northern wilderness in many cultures. For regional information and management practices see local wildlife authorities (Europe, Asia, North America).