Today we are going to explore the mighty moose. This animal is the largest member of the deer family.

Moose are found in northern parts of the US and in most places in Canada. In Europe there are large populations of moose in Norway, Finland, Sweden, Latvia, and Poland. In Europe they are called “European Elk.”

What else is “mighty” about the moose?

Check it out!

Did you know?

• Male moose are called “bulls.” The babies are called “calves.” Girl moose are known as “cows.”
• Moose are very fast. They can run up to 35 miles per hour (56 kph).
• This animal is a strong swimmer. It enjoys being in the water and can hold its breath for up to a minute.

When submerged the moose’s nostrils function as a set of valves which keeps the water from entering into its breathing passageways.

The moose can also dive to up to 20 feet (6.1m). It does this to get the tasty plants on the bottom of the lake.

• Moose are herbivores (only eat plants).
• They can weigh up to 1,300 pounds (590 kg).
• The moose can’t see very well, but it has an excellent sense of smell and hearing.
• The front legs of the moose are longer than its back legs. This makes it an excellent jumper.

Perhaps the most impressive quality of the moose is its gigantic antlers. When the antlers begin to grow, they are covered in a soft velvety fur. A male moose’s antlers can grow up to 6 feet wide (1.8m). They can weigh more than 65 pounds (29.5 kg).

Yikes! You don’t want to confront an angry moose.

Male moose use their antlers for fighting and self defense, the fight is generally over a female.

What do you think of the mighty moose? Tell us your thoughts and opinions in the comments section.