Moose are native to and currently reside in Minnesota, representing the southernmost extent of their range in North America. This large herbivore is an iconic species of the state’s northern wilderness, holding significant cultural and ecological value. They face numerous challenges to their long-term survival.
Current Range and Distribution
Minnesota’s moose population is concentrated primarily in the northeastern part of the state, inhabiting the Arrowhead region, including the Superior National Forest and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The mixed boreal forest provides the necessary combination of food sources and thermal protection.
Moose thrive in areas with abundant young forest growth, often resulting from past logging, windstorms, or wildfires. Their diet consists of leaves, twigs, and bark from deciduous trees like aspen and willow, and sodium-rich aquatic plants found in wetlands. They are frequently found near bogs, swamps, and lakeshores.
A secondary, much smaller population historically existed in the northwestern Aspen Parklands region. This Northwestern population experienced a collapse and is now considered nearly extirpated. Consequently, the Northeastern range is the only area in Minnesota that currently supports a stable, though closely monitored, moose presence.
Population Status and Trends
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) conducts annual aerial surveys to monitor the moose population. The 2024 survey estimated the number of moose in the state at approximately 3,470 animals. This figure reflects fluctuation but suggests the population has achieved stability after years of decline.
The current population is substantially lower than historical highs. Moose numbers in the Northeast peaked at an estimated 8,840 animals around 2006, representing a drop of more than 60%. The decline was more pronounced in the Northwestern population, which fell from a peak of nearly 4,000 animals in the mid-1980s to fewer than 100 individuals today.
Following a steep drop between 2009 and 2013, the population trend in the Northeast has generally stabilized, fluctuating around an average of 3,700 animals. Due to the long-term population loss, the species was designated as one of special concern in 2013. The DNR partners with tribal entities, including the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and the 1854 Treaty Authority, to fund and analyze the annual population health surveys.
Key Stressors Affecting Survival
The biological and environmental factors driving moose mortality are complex and often interact to weaken the animals. One significant cause of death is a parasitic brain worm, Parelaphostrongylus tenuis, carried by white-tailed deer. Deer are largely unaffected by the parasite but excrete its larvae in their feces.
The larvae are ingested by gastropods (snails and slugs) which serve as intermediate hosts on the forest floor. Moose accidentally consume these infected gastropods while foraging, allowing the parasite to enter their system. The brain worm migrates to the central nervous system, causing neurological damage that leads to symptoms like walking in circles, paralysis, and death. Research indicates that brain worm may be responsible for up to 25 to 33% of adult moose mortality.
The changing climate presents a challenge, as moose are adapted to cold environments and are susceptible to heat stress. Their dark, thick coat and large body size make them inefficient at dissipating heat, causing overheating when air temperatures rise above 57°F in the summer or 23°F in the winter. Heat stress causes moose to reduce foraging time, seeking shade or cool water, which leads to poor nutrition and a weakened immune system. This compromised health increases vulnerability to parasites, disease, and predators.
Predation, particularly by gray wolves, affects population stability, especially regarding calf survival. While wolves primarily target compromised animals, their pressure on young calves is a concern for population recruitment. The interaction of heat stress and parasites often weakens the moose first, making them easier targets for predation.
Viewing and Interaction Guidelines
The best opportunity for viewing moose is within the Northeastern range, specifically along the Gunflint Trail National Scenic Byway. This 57-mile route near Grand Marais traverses the heart of the prime moose habitat in Cook County. Other areas include the Superior National Forest backcountry and Voyageurs National Park.
Moose are most active during the cooler parts of the day, so viewing is more likely around dawn and dusk. They can often be found near swampy or shaded areas, or grazing on aquatic plants in lakes and bogs during the summer. A designated Moose Viewing Trail and platform is located about 24 miles north of Grand Marais off the Gunflint Trail.
When observing moose, safety and respect are paramount due to their immense size. Moose can weigh up to 1,000 pounds and may act defensively if threatened. Maintain a significant distance, especially when encountering a cow with a calf, as mother moose are highly protective. Never attempt to approach, feed, or take “selfie” photographs, and drive cautiously in known moose areas to avoid collisions.