Moose

They are so tall, that they prefer to feed on higher shrubs and grass, as lowering their head to the ground can be difficult!


Moose

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They are so tall, that they prefer to feed on higher shrubs and grass, as lowering their head to the ground can be difficult!

Population 1,500,000
3.84% annual growth rate

Stands as the largest member of the deer family, it is distinguished by its monumental size and uniquely shaped antlers; moose are a symbol of the wild landscapes they inhabit. Male moose, in particular, are renowned for their striking antlers, which resemble an open hand with fingers spread wide, spanning up to 1.8 meters (6 feet) from end to end.

The moose’s coat exhibits a remarkable range of colors, shifting from dusky black to various shades of brown. This variation is influenced by the seasons and the individual’s age, with younger calves often displaying a lighter, rusty hue. Such coloration provides them with excellent camouflage, blending seamlessly into the dense forests and rugged terrains they call home.

Moose are highly expressive animals, and their body language can clearly indicate their intentions. When feeling threatened or provoked, a moose might signal its readiness to defend itself by raising the hairs on its hump and laying its ears back. Observers would do well to recognize these signs and give these giants the respect and space they deserve.

Despite their imposing size and seemingly cumbersome build, moose are surprisingly agile. Capable of reaching speeds up to 56 km/h (35 miles per hour), they can outrun many potential threats. Their prowess is not limited to land; moose are also excellent swimmers, capable of covering distances of up to 16 kilometers (10 miles) in water. This aquatic skill is not merely a means of travel but also serves as a strategy for survival. During the warmer months, moose often seek refuge in shallow waters. This behavior serves a dual purpose: cooling off their massive bodies during heat waves and providing a respite from the relentless torment of insects.

Distribution

Country
Population est.
Status
Year
Comments
Austria
Official estimate
EX
Extinct 1995
Belarus
2015
Canada
500-1,000,000
Official estimate
LC
2015
China
2015
Croatia
2015
Czechia
2015
Estonia
2015
Finland
2015
Germany
2015
Hungary
2015
Kazakhstan
2015
Latvia
2015
Lithuania
2015
Moldova
2015
Mongolia
2015
Norway
2015
Poland
2015
Romania
2015
Russia
2015
Slovakia
2015
Sweden
2015
Ukraine
2015
United States
175,000 – 200,000
Official estimate
LC
2015
Alaska

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Terrestrial / Aquatic

Altricial / Precocial

Polygamous / Monogamous

Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic

Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal

Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd

Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore

Migratory: Yes / No

Domesticated: Yes / No

Dangerous: Yes / No

Moose on banknotes

Belarus 25 Rubles