The Moose in Gaspésie
Photo Jonathan Guillot
At the withers, the size of the Moose (Alces americanus) compares to that of the largest saddle horses. The Moose is arguably the largest animal in North America. This large mammal occupies the Canadian forest from east to west, from the borders of Alaska to the eastern tip of Newfoundland and Labrador. Another species with an exclusive distribution area in Canada (for the American form), a good argument to come and explore these wild lands! Moose appreciate the large sparse transitional forests, which precede the large barren areas of the tundra.
Photo Jonathan Guillot
From its 800kg for the largest males, one might think that the Moose, because of its heaviness, has difficulty moving, especially in fairly closed environments. On the contrary, the Moose is very well adapted to its environment. Very good swimmer, he is able to dive to a depth of several meters to extirpate plants at the bottom of large lakes. Some observations relate the ability to swim 20km without straining. It can easily navigate in the forest among fallen trees, in rough terrain and even in snow. In addition, its split hooves and lugs, by spreading apart, give it a greater bearing surface when it is driven on soft ground such as on fresh snow. Its anatomy and great physical shape allow it to brave all seasons, especially the harsh winters of the far north.
Moose are herbivores, consuming leaves, twigs, shrubs, terrestrial plants and a large number of aquatic plants whenever they can be found. The mating season begins in September, which is the time when males are the most beautiful. They feature huge antlers with a wingspan of up to 1.50 meters! Although males may mate with several females, Moose are more inclined to stay with the same female for most of the breeding season. Reproductive success depends on the abundance of food. Thus, in favorable years, it is not uncommon to see twins, well protected by their mother.
The Gray Wolf (Canis lupus) is the primary predator of moose, attacking both juveniles and adults. Black bears and Grizzly bears can also predate young during the first few weeks of life. The species is not threatened, it is considered Least Concern by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and populations appear to be on the rise!
September is a really good month to watch Moose in the Gaspé. At nightfall, the large breeding males join the mating areas to meet the females. Some individuals can approach a few meters. Our presence, as long as we respect a reasonable safety distance and act with respect, calm and gentleness, does not seem to disturb them in any way.
Join us in this adventure! If you want to observe and photograph Moose in Gaspésie, our ethical wildlife tour in Gaspésie is the perfect opportunity :)
Thibaut
Guide Salva Fauna
References :
WOODING, F.H. Les mammifères sauvages du Canada, La Prairie (Québec), Éditions Marcel Broquet, 1984, p. 38–45.
Union Internationale pour la Conservation de la Nature (UICN), Moose (Alces Alces) : www.iucnredlist.org/species/56003281/2215738161064 (consulté le 08/12/2019).
Fédération Canadienne de la Faune, Faune et Flore du Pays, l’Orignal. www.hww.ca/fr/faune/mammiferes/l-orignal.html#sid14 (consulté le 08/12/2019).
