Due to its enormous size, a moose in its prime has little to fear from most predators, for few animals apart from man possess the ability to kill it.
- Moose are most often seen in Yellowstone’s southwestern corner along the Bechler and Falls rivers.
- Moose can be seen around Yellowstone Lake, in the Soda Butte Creek, Pelican Creek, Lewis River, and Gallatin river drainages.
- In the northern part of Yellowstone, look for moose in the Willow Park area between Mammoth and Norris.
Overview
Moose are the largest species in the deer family and are distinguished by the palmate antlers of the males; other members of the family have antlers with a "twig-like" configuration. Newborn moose have fur with a reddish hue in contrast to the brown appearance of an adult.
Interesting Facts
- All moose are herbivores and are capable of consuming any type of plant or fruit. The average adult moose needs to consume 9,770 calories per day to maintain its body weight.
- The male will drop its antlers after the mating season and conserve energy for the winter. A new set of antlers will then regrow in the spring. Antlers take three to five months to fully develop, making them one of the fastest growing animal organs. Immature bulls may not shed their antlers for the winter, but retain them until the following spring.
- Behind only the bison, the moose is the second largest land animal in both North America and Europe.
Best Places to View Moose
Moose are commonly observed in the park's southwestern corner along the Bechler and Falls rivers. They can also be seen in the areas around Yellowstone Lake, in the Soda Butte Creek, Pelican Creek, Lewis River, and Gallatin river drainages. And look for moose in the Willow Park area between Mammoth and Norris.
During the winter months, head to the National Elk Refuge just north of Jackson, Wyoming. Sleigh Rides will take you right up close to the herd.
Respect Wildlife
Standing six feet high at the shoulder and weighing over one thousand pounds, a moose commands respect. Moose are not usually aggressive towards humans, but can be provoked or frightened to behave with aggression. In terms of raw numbers, they attack more people than bears and wolves combined.
- When harassed or startled by people or in the presence of a dog, moose may charge.
- Do not feed moose. Moose that have become habituated to being fed by people may act aggressively when denied food.
- During the fall mating season, bull moose may be aggressive toward humans due to the high hormone levels they experience during this time.
- Cow moose with young calves are very protective and will attack humans who come too close, especially if they come between mother and calf.
- Unlike other dangerous animals, moose are not territorial, and do not view humans as food, and will therefore usually not pursue humans if they simply run away. However, you are still required to stay 25 yards from a moose in Yellowstone National Park.
- Like any wild animal, moose are unpredictable and should be given a respectful amount of space.
- Be wary of moose on the roadways. A collision between a vehicle and a moose is usually disastrous for the moose, the vehicle and the occupants of the vehicle.
