Moose

Alces alces

The moose, Alces alces, is the largest member of the deer family, with long legs, a deep chest, a flexible muzzle, and broad palmate antlers on mature bulls. It lives across northern forests, wetlands, willow flats, and boreal edges, feeding on browse, aquatic plants, bark, twigs, and seasonal vegetation. Despite its size, a moose can move quietly through dense cover and swim strongly when crossing lakes or feeding in water.

People manage moose mostly through wildlife programs, hunting regulation, road-safety planning, and habitat monitoring. Populations can be affected by winter ticks, brainworm, severe heat, vehicle collisions, and changes in young forest growth. Zoos and rehabilitation centers keep moose only selectively because they need cool conditions, specialized browse, safe fencing, and careful hoof and parasite management. Orphaned calves require licensed care and are rarely simple release candidates.