Last Updated on September 14, 2023 by Amin Tawar
They are large, heavy, and have two big antlers. These wild creatures can also kick in any direction with its front hooves which is not common among their cousins in the deer species.
Yes, we are talking about the moose. Scientifically called Alces alces, these creatures are one of the largest mammals found on land.
They are predominantly found in parts of the North American and European continents. But what about Wisconsin?
Below In this article, I’ve explained everything you need to know about the Moose’s presence in this beautiful, diverse state.
Are There Any Moose in Wisconsin?
Yes, there are moose in Wisconsin, albeit very few. These creatures are a recent addition to the state’s wildlife population and are predominantly found in boreal temperate and mixed forests.
As Wisconsin boasts of a range of habitats including hardwood forests and coniferous forests, Moose are able to survive in the state.
How Many Moose in Wisconsin? Wisconsin Moose Population?
As per the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, there are just about 20 to 40 moose individuals in the state. Yes, this is bad, but we do need to note that many of the moose tend to travel back and forth between Wisconsin and the upper peninsula of Michigan and these estimates don’t include those individuals.
While these numbers are quite lower in comparison to the moose population in other states like Alaska and Maine, the Moose population in Wisconsin was extirpated until recently.
How Common Is It to See Moose in Wisconsin?
Not quite common according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. During pre-European colonial times, Moose lived in most of the boreal forests found in almost all regions of the state. It was fairly common to spot one. But by the early twentieth century, Moose in the state were extirpated with the last one being killed by a hunter in 1921.
And nowadays it is also very hard to spot one as they have a very low population count in the state.
Where To See Moose in Wisconsin?
Moose prefer boreal forests and are therefore commonly found in the north and central regions of Wisconsin.
As per recent sightings and surveys by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, moose individuals have been spotted in Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and Lake Superior in the northern region of Wisconsin.
The best time of the year to spot them would be from mid-spring through late June and especially during morning or at dusk.
However, it’s important to note that the Moose population in the state is still estimated as small and is considered rare. In fact, white-tailed deer hunters are explicitly warned to not kill moose accidentally during hunting season.
Also Check Our Guide On Moose In America
How Big Are Moose in Wisconsin?
Be it the moose in Wisconsin or other states of the country, these creatures are the largest deer species found through out the world. Note that it is the male adult Moose called bulls that have the antlers and not the female adult Moose(cow).
Like in most animals, male moose are larger than their female counterparts. In general, an adult bull in Wisconsin weighs anywhere between 900 to 1400 pounds, with cows weighing slightly less between 800 to 1000 pounds.
Their height is pretty common measuring between 1.4 to 2 m on average. Note that the provided size is for average moose and individual moose size differs based on habitat, genetics, nutrition, etc.
Why Does Wisconsin Have So Many Moose?
Contrary to the belief, there is actually less population of Moose in Wisconsin. In the past, Moose were native to Wisconsin and were a common sight among the residents.
However, due to European settlement, they were eradicated from the state now due to efforts from wildlife agencies, their population has been increasing. It is still recovering, and the numbers are quite less in the range of 20 to 40.
Can You Hunt Moose in Wisconsin?
No, you cannot hunt Moose in Wisconsin. These undulates are categorized as a “watchable wildlife” species by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. This is done to ensure the effective monitoring of the Moose population for their sustainable growth.
In fact, it is because of efforts like these that the Moose population has been brought from the brink of extinction.
If not, there might not have been any moose population in the state. Also, note that the state hasn’t introduced any moose population due to its low success rate as compared to those for elks.
Also check Our Guide On Moose In Vermont
Conclusion
And that was everything you need to know about the Moose In Wisconsin. I hope this article answered all your queries.
Thank You For Reading!
Our Source For This Guide