Moose

(Alces alces)

Moose immigrated onto the Seward Peninsula in the late 1940's. By the 1960's, the population was well established and increasing each year. Although numbers have apparently stabilized over most of the region, they are still increasing in the western part of the Preserve where habitat for them is limited.

The moose is the largest animal in the Preserve, weighing more than most bears and all other species. Height at the shoulders range between 6 ½ -7 ½ feet (1.95-2.25 m), and are 6 ¾ -9 feet (2.06-2.79 m) long. Females weigh 700-1,000 pounds (315-495 kg), while males weigh 900-1,400 pounds (405-630 kg). Males have massive flattened antlers usually 4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 m) wide, but can be as big as 6 ¾ feet (206 cm).

This largest member of the deer family is frequently seen at Serpentine Hot Springs, and on willow covered hillsides during the summer. They move to stream bottoms in winter to take advantage of taller willow species used for food and cut banks used for shelter from the wind. Their primary predators within the Preserve are brown (grizzly) bears and wolves.

Moose are hunted for subsistence by local residents and some trophy class animals have been seen in the region.

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URL: http://www.nps.gov/bela/html/moose.htm
Last Updated: 22 December, 1995