The Alaskan moose (Alces alces gigas) is widely distributed and abundant across the state, holding a significant place in the northern ecosystem. These massive ungulates are the largest members of the deer family globally, representing an iconic element of the state’s wilderness and culture. Understanding their range, characteristics, and behavior is essential due to their size and frequent presence near human settlements.
Range and Preferred Habitat
Moose are found across a vast area of Alaska, extending from the Stikine River in the Southeast Panhandle to the Colville River on the Arctic Slope. They prefer boreal forests and mixed deciduous woodlands, which provide the woody browse necessary for survival.
They are numerous along major river corridors in Southcentral and Interior Alaska, where riparian zones offer dense growths of willow, birch, and sedges. These areas provide the cover and high volume of vegetation needed to sustain their large body mass. Moose also thrive in areas recently affected by wildfires, which promote the growth of young, nutritious shrubs.
Moose frequently move into lower-lying areas, especially during winter. Deep snow restricts movement and access to food, often pushing them toward human-maintained corridors like roadways and trails. Seasonal movements can cover up to 60 miles between summer feeding grounds and sheltered winter ranges.
Defining Characteristics of the Alaskan Moose
The Alaskan moose (Alces alces gigas) is the largest of all moose subspecies. A mature bull can stand over 2.1 meters (nearly seven feet) at the shoulder. Male moose typically weigh between 635 and 725 kilograms (1,400 to 1,600 pounds), while females, or cows, are slightly smaller, often exceeding 478 kilograms (1,050 pounds).
The most distinguishing feature of the bull moose is its massive, palmate antlers, which can span more than 1.8 meters (six feet) across. These structures can weigh up to 32 kilograms (70 pounds) and are shed and regrown annually. To support their immense size and rapid antler growth, moose are dedicated browsers, consuming an average of 9,770 kilocalories daily.
Their diet primarily consists of the shoots and leaves of woody plants, such as willow, birch, and aspen. They lack upper front teeth but have eight sharp incisors on their lower jaw, which helps them strip bark and browse on tough vegetation. Their long legs and high shoulder hump are adaptations that allow them to step over obstacles and reach high branches.
Safe Coexistence with Urban Moose
Encounters between humans and moose are common in Alaska, particularly in urban centers like Anchorage and the Mat-Su Valley. Safe coexistence requires maintaining a respectful distance, which wildlife experts advise should be at least 50 yards (150 feet). Moose are not aggressive but will defend themselves when they perceive a threat or are stressed.
A threatened moose will exhibit clear warning signs before charging, such as laying its ears back, raising the hair on its hump, and stomping its front feet. Winter is a period of heightened risk because deep snow forces moose onto plowed paths, and stressed animals are less tolerant of people. It is dangerous and illegal to feed moose, as this habituates them to humans and increases the likelihood of aggressive encounters.
The most dangerous encounters involve a cow protecting a calf, which typically occurs in late spring and summer. If a moose begins to charge, the recommended action is to run immediately and put a large, solid object, such as a vehicle or a sturdy tree, between yourself and the animal. If knocked down, curl into a ball and protect your head and neck, as moose use their sharp hooves to stomp potential threats.