Moose Habitat Needs

Abstract

A review of the literature describing moose habitat needs is presented. The growing season is a period of positive energy balance when moose feed extensively on a variety of deciduous leaves, aquatic macrophytes and herbaceous vegetation which satisfy nutritional requirements for weight gain and development. In winter, a period of negative energy balance, food intake and metabolism are reduced to conserve energy and minimize weight loss. In addition, good moose winter habitat includes shelter from extreme temperatures, deep snow and access to secure areas to help avoid predators expecially during spring calving. Optimum habitats contain an interspersion of food and cover within traditionally used seasonal home ranges.