BCWF Watershed Team

When we think of wetland species we often think of animals such as birds, amphibians, and aquatic insects. However, wetlands are renowned for being an ecological hotspot that house a surprising list of tenants – one of them being moose. Moose (Alces alces) aren’t always thought of as a wetland species, but they’re frequently seen feeding on the vegetation around marshes, shallow lakes, and swamps. Wetlands provide year-round food for moose, from nutrient-rich aquatic plants like pondweed and water lilies in the summer to woody shrubs and twigs in the winter. Moose can eat up to 20 kg of vegetation per day, making wetlands essential to their survival. Moose are the largest members of the deer family. British Columbia has three subspecies of Moose, Northwestern Moose (andersoni), Alaskan Moose (gigas) and Shiras’ Moose (shirasi). 

Their mating season includes many preliminary steps. It begins at the end of the first week of September when bulls stop feeding and begin scent marking. This is when a bull digs a small pit, urinates in it, and mixes the urine with the soil. The pit is then used as a bed for the bull to lie in while he waits for female partners. But why the urine? It actually contains chemicals that help coordinate the fertility of nearby cows. The mating process doesn’t end there. By mid-September, males begin to fight each other for breeding rights. These battles can be fatal and may last for hours. Ultimately, the strongest moose earns the privilege of impregnating as many cows as he can. 

Under normal conditions, single births are the norm, and only 10 to 20 percent of adult cows produce twins. Newborn calves typically weigh between 11 and 16 kg and can stand on their first day. Most cows produce one or two calves each year throughout their lifetime. Yearling bulls are capable of breeding, though older bulls account for most successful matings. The main natural causes of death in moose are starvation and predation. Humans also contribute to mortality through direct conflict and collisions with trains and vehicles. During particularly harsh winters—when snow is unusually deep and long-lasting—moose may become physically weakened, especially if they are older, injured, or have underlying disease, and may die from starvation or wolf predation. Black Bears can take significant numbers of newborn calves. Grizzly Bears also kill moose from spring through fall, and Cougars occasionally prey on moose in the southern interior. 

Quick Facts About Moose 

• Moose are the largest members of the deer family. 
• Male moose shed their antlers each winter and grow them back in the spring. 
• Their hollow hairs help insulate them against the cold as they move through deep snow. 
• The word “moose” comes from the Algonquin language and means “twig eater.” 
• What’s the difference between a moose, elk, and caribou? While all are large members of the deer family, they’re different species that live in different regions. Moose are found in high latitudes (like Alaska) and also in warmer forested areas such as New England. Caribou (also known as reindeer in Eurasia) primarily inhabit Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. Elk are most commonly found in western North America and parts of eastern Asia. 

Moose play a vital role in forest ecosystems and hold deep cultural, spiritual, and subsistence significance for many local and Indigenous communities across Canada. By learning more about their behavior, life cycle, and population trends, we can deepen our understanding and appreciation of this iconic species and the diverse landscapes they inhabit. 

If you would like updates on wetlands and wildlife news in B.C., connect with us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and check our blogs for more species profiles!