Moose are present in Minnesota, making it one of the few contiguous United States where these large mammals are found. Their presence contributes to the state’s natural heritage and draws interest from wildlife enthusiasts. While their population has faced challenges, they remain an iconic part of Minnesota’s northern landscape.
Where Moose Reside
Moose in Minnesota primarily inhabit the northeastern region of the state, often referred to as the Arrowhead region. This area encompasses parts of the Superior National Forest and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. They thrive in boreal forest habitats, characterized by a mix of spruce, fir, and pine trees, often interspersed with wetlands and peatlands.
These animals prefer areas of young forest growth, often created by natural disturbances such as wildfires, windstorms, or logging activities. Such environments provide the leafy deciduous plants and shrubs that constitute a significant portion of their diet. While the majority of Minnesota’s moose are concentrated in the northeast, a smaller population exists in the northwestern part of the state, typically found in a transitional zone of woodlots and farm fields.
Population Status
Minnesota’s moose population has undergone significant changes over the past couple of decades. In the mid-2000s, the population in northeastern Minnesota was estimated to be around 8,000 animals. However, a steep decline of approximately 60% occurred since then.
Recent aerial surveys indicate that the population has stabilized in recent years, fluctuating around 3,700 to 4,040 animals. These annual population estimates are conducted during winter by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and its partners, using helicopters to count moose in sample plots.
Challenges to Survival
Moose in Minnesota face a complex array of threats that have contributed to their population decline. Climate change is a significant factor, as moose are adapted to cold environments and can suffer from heat stress. Warm summer temperatures cause moose to reduce feeding and increase resting, negatively impacting their health and winter survival. The increased frequency of summer days above 80°F in northern Minnesota further exacerbates this issue.
Parasites pose another substantial danger to moose health. Brainworm ( Parelaphostrongylus tenuis), a parasite carried by white-tailed deer without harming them, is fatal to moose. Moose become infected by accidentally ingesting snails and slugs that have consumed deer feces containing the parasite’s larvae. Once inside a moose, the brainworm causes neurological damage, leading to disorientation, weakness, and often death.
Warmer winters also contribute to increased winter tick populations, with thousands of ticks potentially infesting a single moose. This heavy parasitic load can lead to severe blood loss, anemia, and cause moose to rub off their fur, making them vulnerable to hypothermia and more visible to predators. Predation by wolves and black bears also impacts survival rates, though wolves often target moose that are already weakened by disease or parasites.
Coexisting with Moose
Encountering a moose in the wild can be a memorable experience, but it is important to prioritize safety and respect their space. If you spot a moose, maintain a considerable distance, ideally at least 25 yards. This distance should be increased even further if it is a cow with calves, as mother moose are highly protective of their young, or a bull during the autumn rutting season, when they can be more aggressive.
Should a moose appear agitated or begin to charge, it is advisable to run and attempt to place a large object, such as a tree, between yourself and the animal. Moose charges are typically defensive rather than predatory, so creating a barrier can help deter them. For optimal viewing opportunities, consider visiting areas known for moose presence during dawn or dusk, when they are most active. Moving slowly and quietly, and using binoculars, can enhance your chances of observing them without causing disturbance.