Moose, the largest members of the deer family, are found across the northern hemisphere. Understanding their physical dimensions, particularly their weight, offers insight into their adaptations and ecological role. This article explores how much a full-grown moose weighs and the factors influencing their physical attributes.
The Weight of a Full-Grown Moose
A full-grown moose exhibits significant weight variation depending on its sex and geographical location. Adult male moose, known as bulls, typically weigh between 800 and 1,500 pounds (360 to 680 kg). Some of the largest bulls, particularly from the Alaska-Yukon subspecies, can exceed this range, with record individuals weighing as much as 1,808 pounds (820 kg). Females, or cows, are generally smaller than males, with their weight commonly ranging from 500 to 1,000 pounds (225 to 450 kg).
The average weight for a mature bull moose in most regions is around 1,100 pounds (500 kg), while an average cow typically weighs about 700 pounds (320 kg). Alaskan moose (Alces alces gigas) are the largest subspecies, with bulls often weighing between 1,200 and 1,600 pounds (542 to 725 kg) and cows over 1,000 pounds (450 kg). In contrast, the Shiras moose, found in the Rocky Mountains, represents the smallest North American subspecies, with bulls weighing up to 1,200 pounds. Northwestern and Eastern moose subspecies fall between these extremes in size.
Factors Influencing a Moose’s Size
Several factors contribute to the wide range observed in moose weights. Age plays a significant role, as moose continue to grow and gain mass until they reach full maturity, typically around 5 to 10 years of age. After about 12 to 13 years, their overall size and antler development may begin to decline.
The availability and quality of food in their habitat directly influence a moose’s growth and eventual size. Moose are herbivores, consuming large quantities of leaves, twigs, buds, and aquatic vegetation daily. A healthy adult moose can eat 40 to 60 pounds of browse daily, and sufficient nutrition, especially sodium-rich aquatic plants, is crucial for maintaining their large body mass.
Beyond Weight: Other Physical Dimensions
Beyond their substantial weight, moose possess other physical dimensions. An adult moose typically stands between 4 feet 7 inches and 6 feet 11 inches (1.4 to 2.1 meters) tall at the shoulder. The largest individuals, particularly Alaskan bulls, can reach nearly 7 feet at the shoulder, with a record standing 7.6 feet tall. Their body length, measured from nose to tail, can range from 7.5 to 10 feet (2.3 to 3 meters). Moose have relatively short tails, measuring only about 2.5 to 7 inches long. Their long legs, with front legs longer than their hind legs, allow them to navigate deep snow and easily step over obstacles.
The Role of Antlers in Male Moose Size
Antlers are a prominent feature of male moose and contribute to their overall size. Only bull moose grow antlers, which are shed and regrown annually, typically from spring through late summer. These bone structures are among the fastest-growing tissues in the animal kingdom, with some antlers growing an inch or more per day.
A large set of moose antlers can weigh between 25 and 40 pounds (11-18 kg), with the heaviest recorded antlers reaching up to 79 pounds (36 kg). The span of these palmate antlers can range from 4 to 6 feet wide, with some record antlers spreading over 83 inches (2.1 meters). Antlers serve various purposes, including display of dominance during the mating season, intimidation of rivals, and occasional sparring. The size and symmetry of a bull’s antlers often signal its health and strength to potential mates.