Last Updated on September 14, 2023 by Amin Tawar
Few species of wild animals can have duality as much as the moose. While these creatures look quite intimidating, the truth is far from that. They are quite peaceful and rarely become aggressive.
They are pretty common in the North American continent, ranging from Canada in the north to Mexico in the south, including the state of Michigan.
Below In this article, I’ve explained everything you need to know about these creatures.
Are There Moose in Michigan?
Yes, there is a stable population of Moose in Michigan. In fact, many wildlife enthusiasts and photographers visit the state especially to take pictures of these magnificent creatures.
Moose’s impressive size and those big, terrifying antlers are some of the physical features that attract many people towards them.
While they have a stable population, the range is quite lower as compared to other states like Alaska & Maine. But don’t worry, the conservation and habitat management are ongoing to improve their numbers throughout the state.
How Many Moose in Michigan?
It’s pretty difficult to give a precise estimate of an animal’s population especially the ones in the wild. As per the Michigan Department of Natural Resource’s recent biennial survey, there are approximately about 609 Moose individuals in the state of Michigan.
While this is a respectable number, it is less compared to other states where the population reached thousands. Additionally, due to their chocolate color with antlers resembling tree trunks, it may be quite difficult to spot them even in spots with established populations.
How Big Are Moose in Michigan?
Be it in Michigan or any other part of the world. Moose are quite big. In fact, they are the largest deer species found in the world. While there are few regional variations in Moose’s size, it is not vastly different.
They weigh anywhere between 360 kg to 680 kg (700-1400 lbs). On paper, it might not seem much but when you sight them in the wild, the scale of their weight amazes you.
To compare to the human scale, about eight average humans will weigh the same as that one Moose. They also are as tall as the tallest humans. Their shoulder measures anywhere between 1.8 to 2.1 m in height.
Also Check Our Guide On Moose In America
Is It Rare to See a Moose in Michigan?
As per fossil findings, Moose are native to the state. But were brought to the brink of extirpation after European settlement in about the early 1900s. It was the conversationalists and wildlife enthusiasts who not only helped establish these creatures again but also managed them consistently throughout the years.
Yes, their population has improved by a good margin. However, they haven’t yet obtained their historical range and that’s why Moose in Michigan is still a rare sight.
Where To See Moose in Michigan? (With Best Time of Year to See Moose in Michigan)
So, you want to observe these creatures in the wild? No problem, While they are a bit of a rare sight in the state, you definitely can spot them with a little planning.
While they have disappeared from the Lower Peninsula of Michigan due to extensive hunting, habitat loss, and also death due to diseases, there are two moose herds in the Upper Peninsula.
One is found in the eastern peninsula with more than 100 Mooses and the other is in the western peninsula where Moose was airlifted from Canada and inhabited there.
It is difficult to spot them in the wild due to their secretive and protective nature. However, during the mating season, which takes place between September to late October, most of the adult moose are active. In addition to this, they are also quite visible when searching.
Why Are Moose Tagged in Michigan?
As discussed earlier, the ever-present Moose in the past were almost eradicated after Europeans settled in the state. Moose play a significant role in the ecosystem as the prey for top predators. Their population drop means an even lower chance for predators to find prey for survival.
Therefore, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources translocated about 59 moose from Canada into Marquette County in the mid-1980s. These moose were fitted with mortality-sensing radio collars so that the agency could monitor their movements and in turn the success of re-introduction.
From then till now, moose have been tagged to check their movements and help the agency check for the success of reintroduction, perform various studies based on their movement, etc.
Can You Hunt Moose in Michigan?
Mostly yes, you can hunt moose in Michigan. But keep in mind that Moose hunting is quite regulated and only a few seasons per year are being conducted. This typically takes place in October and November.
It is important to note that, since the mid-1900s, the state is putting its efforts into conserving the Moose population. Once present throughout the state, they were on the brink of extinction in the early 1900s.
Even after following and establishing regulations, the Moose population was also affected by diseases spread from other animals like white-tailed deer.
But somehow the agency has been able to preserve the growth of the population albeit with few deaths along the way.
Also Check Our Guide On Moose In Massachusetts
What To Do If You See a Moose in Michigan?
At the end of the day, Moose are wild animals, and though aren’t aggressive, they may exhibit emotion when threatened.
So, always observe them from a distance, avoid feeding them, etc. As for yourself, if you encounter a moose in your locality then report it to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. And they’ll take proper measures to ensure everyone’s safety.
Conclusion
And that was everything you need to know about the Moose In Michigan. I hope this article answered all your queries.
Thank You For Reading!
Our Source For This Guide