Standing up to seven feet at the shoulders and weighing up to 1,800 pounds, the Moose is the largest member of the Deer Family.

Due to their size, Moose have few natural predators. The male, or “bull,” grows an enormous set of antlers. On a mature bull the antlers may span 6 feet and weigh up to 70 pounds. Despite their size Moose are remarkably agile. They are able to run at speeds of up to 35 miles per hour and are capable of swimming up to 10 miles without stopping. The average life span of a Moose is about 10 to 15 years.

Moose are solitary animals. However, during mating season, they will herd in groups to seek out mates. Bulls compete with each other for females to mate with. Females, or “cows,” will attract bulls with loud moaning vocalization. Breeding season extends from September through October. By early December the males lose their antlers and immediately start growing new ones. In late May or early June pregnant females will give birth; usually to one calf, but twins are also common.

Moose calves weigh around 25 pounds at birth and will gain over two pounds a day while nursing. Calves are weaned at five months but their mother will rear them for up to a year; defending them from any potential threat they encounter. Often a cow will have to drive off her yearling offspring so that she may care for her newborn calf. Moose are considered fully mature at 4 to 5 years of age.