Montana Moose, Pictures

Visitors enjoy spotting wild moose gathering near lakes, streams, rivers, and in the depths of the forests to obtain food and shelter around West Yellowstone and within Yellowstone National Park.

Overview

The moose is a magnificent beast, the largest of the deer family, and weighs around 600 to 1500 pounds. They can tower at a height of 7 feet with antlers up to 5 feet wide. They are quite a sight when seen wandering the landscapes of the greater Yellowstone area. With their disproportionately large head and square muzzle, they can seem quite intimidating.

Interesting Facts

The legs of the moose are built for navigating deep snow and wading in marshes. They walk slowly but if frightened or agitated, can gallop at speeds up to 34 miles per hour.

The largest moose on record was a bull shot in 1897 on the Yukon River. He weighed 1800 pounds and was 7.6 feet tall at the shoulder.

If a bull moose is somehow castrated, perhaps in an accident or something of the sort, he will shed his antlers and grow a new set. The new antlers are deformed and strangely shaped and will never again shed. These distinctive appendages are referred to as “devil’s antlers.”

Moose scat is sold by some souvenir shops by sealing it with shellac, placing it in bags and labeling it with humorous names.

Best Place for Viewing Moose

The best place to find the normally reclusive moose is along any stream or in a marsh or willow thicket. You’ll find some along the road between Norris and Mammoth Hot Springs, in Willow Park or in the Yellowstone Lake area around Fishing Bridge. The valleys are also a good place to spot some, like the Lamar Valley in the meadows or Hayden Valley. Sometimes they will be partially submerged in water as they feed or rest. Other places to check are around Soda Butte Creek and the Lewis and Gallatin Rivers.

Respecting Wildlife

• Never approach a moose, particularly if it’s a cow with a calf. They aren’t usually aggressive towards humans, but if provoked, frightened or protecting their young, they can attack.
• Don’t feed the moose (or any wildlife). They can become aggressive when they begin to rely on humans to be fed.
• Leave pets in the car when moose are around. Dogs may startle the moose into attacking.
• In Yellowstone National Park, you are required to stay at least 25 yards away from any moose encountered.
• Watch for moose on the roads. Collisions with these huge animals are disastrous for all involved.