EUROPEAN MOOSE
Alces alces
DESCRIPTION
The European Moose, or Alces alces, is the largest species of the deer family. Known for its long legs and large, palmate antlers, it is a distinctive herbivore found in northern forests.
FUN FACTS
- Moose can dive underwater to feed on aquatic plants | They have a unique 'bell' or dewlap under their throat that helps with communication | Moose can weigh as much as a small car
QUICK INFO
Lifespan15-20 years in the wild, up to 25 in captivity
Average Weight400-700 kg
Average Length2.4-3.0 m
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social StructureSolitary, with occasional pairs during mating season
Activity PatternCrepuscular
Breeding SeasonAutumn (September-November)
- Habitat
- Moose inhabit boreal forests, wetlands, and areas near lakes and rivers. They prefer habitats with abundant vegetation for feeding and cover.
- Biomes
- Boreal Forest, Temperate Forest
- Native Range
- The European Moose is found across northern Europe and parts of Asia, including Scandinavia, Russia, and the Baltic states.
- Continent
- Europe, Asia
- Countries
- Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland
- Diet
- European Moose primarily feed on leaves, bark, and aquatic plants. They are known to consume a variety of vegetation, particularly during the summer months.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- Willow, birch, and aquatic plants
- Social Structure
- Solitary, with occasional pairs during mating season
- Activity Pattern
- Crepuscular
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 0
LC
LC
400-700 kg
Weight
2.4-3.0 m
Length
1.5-2.1 m at shoulder
Height (Shoulder)
- Coloration
- Dark brown to grayish-brown fur
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are larger and have antlers, females do not
- Lifespan
- 15-20 years in the wild, up to 25 in captivity
- Gestation Period
- 230 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 1-2
- Sexual Maturity
- 1.5-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Autumn (September-November)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is generally stable, but local declines may occur due to hunting and habitat loss.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 1,000,000+
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction, vehicle collisions, and hunting. Climate change may also impact their habitat and food sources.
- Predators
- Wolves, bears, and humans
- Defense Mechanisms
- Moose can run quickly and are capable of defending themselves with their hooves if threatened.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon