|
Alces alces shirasiAlce de Shiras (Sp), Yellowstone Elch (G), Elan du Shiras (F). Named in honor of Congressman George Shiras III of Pennsylvania, who was a noted conservationist. Also called Wyoming moose or Yellowstone moose.
DESCRIPTION The Shiras moose has the smallest antlers of any North American moose. The body color is a rusty yellowish-brown, with a pale brownish saddle.
BEHAVIOR Solitary except when mating, or a cow with her recent offspring, living by itself in a small home range. Not territorial. Mates in September and October, with bulls displaying and fighting for dominance and taking one female at a time. Bulls can be dangerous during the rut, and unarmed humans may be at risk. Calves are born in May and June, frequently twins, though often a single and occasionally triplets. Females can breed until about 18 years of age. Maximum longevity is 27 years. A browser, depending on woody vegetation-notably willow, poplar, balsam, aspen and birch-eating leaves, twigs and bark. Feeds on aquatic vegetation by wading into lakes and streams, often submerging completely to feed on the bottom. Vision is poor, with stationary objects seemingly not recognized at all. Senses of smell and hearing are excellent. Active throughout the day, but with peaks at dawn and dark. Despite it ungainly appearance, the moose is nimble and surefooted. Able to cross swamps and quicksand where other animals would mire. Its normal gait is is a quiet, careful walk, but can maintain a speed of 35 mph (56 km/h) for a considerable distance. Has great endurance, able to run up mountainsides or through deep snow or downed timber for miles. An excellent swimmer. Silent except during the rut, when sexes call to each other with grunts and moans. Principal predator is the wolf, with grizzly in a lesser role. As number of wolves are required to bring down a moose, healthyadults are often attacked; calves and sick or aged adults are not necessarily preferred prey.HABITAT Mountains and foothills with suitable browse.
DISTRIBUTION Canada: Southwestern British Columbia, commencing at the International Boundary at Sumas Highway 11 to Trans-Canada Highway#1 following southeastern along the Trans-Canada Highway #1; and Southwestern Alberta south of the Trans-Canada Highway #1 and west of Highway #2 to the International Boundary. United States: Northeastern Washington, northern and eastern Idaho, western Montana, western and southern Wyoming, northeastern Utah, and northwestern Colorado.REMARKS At this writing, non-residents are allowed to hunt Shiras moose in British Columbia and Alberta, and may hunt by drawn permit in Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Utah and Colorado. Best odds for drawing are in Utah, with Wyoming next.
|
LOGIN
