Species MammalsMoose

Moose

Alces alces

UncommonMammal
Illustration of Moose (Alces alces)
Safety note: Moose are large and dangerous when surprised. Observe from far away.

The Moose is the largest member of the deer family, with massive palm-shaped antlers on males. Despite their lumbering appearance, moose are strong swimmers and can run up to 35 mph.

Habitat
Boreal forests, northern swamps, and riparian willow thickets
Diet
Willows, aquatic plants, grasses, and bark
How common
Uncommon

Best time to see a Moose

The best time to see a Moose is April–July, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 46,285 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Not certain it is a Moose? What animal is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.

Recent Moose sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

Spot a Moose? Identify it instantly.

Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.

Get Huck

Get an alert when a Moose is spotted

Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.

Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.

Love mammals? Get Huck field notes

Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.

By subscribing you agree to receive Huck emails. No spam, unsubscribe anytime. See our Privacy Policy.

More mammals

Mountain Beaver
Mountain Beaver
Aplodontia rufa
Mountain Coati
Mountain Coati
Nasuella olivacea
Mountain Cottontail
Mountain Cottontail
Sylvilagus nuttallii
Mountain Goat
Mountain Goat
Oreamnos americanus
Mountain Lion
Mountain Lion
Puma concolor
Mule Deer
Mule Deer
Odocoileus hemionus
Musk Ox
Musk Ox
Ovibos moschatus
Muskrat
Muskrat
Ondatra zibethicus