Tongass Journal - Moose - Middle School Coniferous Forest Herbivores

Tongass Journal - Moose
Tongass National Forest
US Forest Service

Moose
Bull moose splashes through chest-deep water.This massive-bodied creature is supported by exceptionally long and slender legs, has a long muzzle with a large hanging nose, and flowing beard-like skin extending from the throat. The moose is just one of the many interesting animals that call Alaska home. Moose are the largest member of the deer family. Calves weigh from 25 to 28 pounds when born and may grow up to over 1,000 pounds. Antlers grow only on the males and look like a human hand with fingers spread. The antlers are covered by skin, or velvet, with a profuse vascular system. By late August, the velvet is rubbed off against tree branches. The newly exposed bloodstained white antlers later become dark tan in color. One of the largest sets of moose antlers was found in the interior of Alaska and had a spread of 78 inches, which is six and a half feet. Antler spread is measured as the distance between outside farthest points. Size and form of antlers vary greatly between individual moose.

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