The Eurasian Elk is larger, with adults standing between 5.5 to 7.0 feet at the shoulder. They can weigh up to 1,400 pounds and their antlers are wider and more flattened.
American Moose are typically shorter, with adults reaching 4.9 to 6.6 feet at the shoulder.American Moose can reach up to 1,000 pounds due to their slightly smaller body mass.
The coat consists of two layers: a top layer of hollow guard hair that helps insulate against cold weather; and an undercoat made up of soft downy fur that provides warmth during the winter months.
Besides size males also possess large antlers used in courtship displays during mating season. Female moose lack antlers but have a small hump on their heads which helps identify them from a distance.
The moose population is generally increasing, with some exceptions in areas of Canada and Alaska, where numbers have declined in recent years due to habitat loss and climate change.
They typically give birth to twins each spring after a gestation period of 8-9 months. It’s estimated that female moose reach sexual maturity between 2-3 years old, while males tend to mature at 4-5.
Although male moose tend to be larger than female moose, other conditions such as access to food, the moose’s age, and overall health are all essential considerations in determining its size.