Idaho is home to a population of moose. These impressive animals are the largest members of the deer family in North America. Moose are readily identifiable by their substantial size, dark brown coloration, long legs, and large, palmate antlers unique to males.
Where Idaho Moose Roam
Moose are found across a wide range of habitats throughout Idaho, primarily inhabiting the western slopes of the Rocky Mountains, extending westward to Hells Canyon, and into isolated mountain ranges south of Salmon. Their distribution also includes areas along the borders with Montana, Wyoming, and Utah.
Northern Idaho, particularly the Panhandle and Clearwater regions, along with eastern Idaho’s Upper Snake and Southeast Idaho areas, consistently report higher moose populations. South-central Idaho also supports these animals, especially in the South Hills near Twin Falls.
These large herbivores prefer specific types of environments, including mesic habitats, aspen groves, dryland conifer forests, and mountain shrublands. They are often observed in riparian zones (areas along rivers and streams) and around small lakes surrounded by forests, where aquatic vegetation is abundant.
While typically associated with wilderness, moose occasionally venture into urban areas like Pocatello, Idaho Falls, and Boise. Such visits are usually brief as they seek more suitable natural surroundings.
Idaho’s Shiras Moose
The specific subspecies of moose found in Idaho is the Shiras moose (Alces alces shirasi). This subspecies is recognized as having the smallest body size among all North American moose.
Shiras moose typically have a rusty yellowish-brown coat, sometimes with a pale brownish saddle. They are characterized by their long legs, a noticeable hump on their shoulders, and a pendulous muzzle.
Male Shiras moose can weigh up to 816 pounds, while females can reach about 750 pounds. Their distinctive antlers are broad and palmate, growing outwards from the sides of the head with a main beam that divides into two primary branches.
Their diet consists mainly of woody vegetation such as willow, poplar, balsam, aspen, and birch. They also wade into lakes and streams to feed on aquatic plants, sometimes submerging completely to reach vegetation at the bottom.
Moose Population and Management
Idaho is home to an estimated moose population of 10,000 to 12,000 individuals. While some populations in northern Idaho have experienced declines, the overall range of moose is expanding into the state’s south-central regions. The Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) manages these animals.
IDFG considers moose a trophy species and implements regulated annual harvests. The department’s management goals include maintaining sustainable populations, improving habitat quality, and providing opportunities for wildlife viewing.
IDFG also responds to situations where moose venture into populated areas, sometimes relocating animals to more appropriate natural environments. This ensures public safety and the well-being of the moose.
Encountering Moose in Idaho
When observing moose in Idaho, maintaining a safe distance is important. Stay at least 25 yards (or 50 feet) away from these animals.
Moose, particularly cows with calves or bulls during the fall breeding season, can exhibit aggressive behavior if they feel threatened. Dogs can also provoke moose, so keeping them leashed and under control is important.
Signs of an agitated moose include a lowered head, hair standing up on its neck or hump, licking its snout, or pinning its ears back.
If a moose shows these warning signs or charges, run and find a solid object like a tree, vehicle, or building to hide behind. Should a moose knock you down, curl into a ball and protect your head and neck while remaining still until the animal moves away.
Avoid feeding moose, as this can lead to aggressive behaviors.