Mineral lick use by moose in Alaska

Abstract

Chemical analyses and observations of lick use indicated that natural licks are an important source of sodium for moose (Alces alces) in Alaska during early summer (June). Most lick use occurred in late evening, unlike the diel activity patterns of moose not at licks. Bulls used licks earlier in the summer than cows and there was a disproportionately high rate of lick use by bulls. Calves used licks less than dams and started using licks later in the season. Sex and age differences in lick use would bias population counts from lick observations. Natural licks appeared to influence movements and distribution of moose during spring and summer.