Moose are generally docile towards humans, but may become more aggressive during the mating season of September through October.The name "moose" comes from the Native American word "Moswa," which translates to "twig eater."On average, moose live 10 to 15 years in the wild. Moose are considered fully mature at 4 to 5 years of age.Moose are remarkably agile for their size, capable of running at speeds of up to 35 miles per hour.Moose are capable of swimming up to 10 miles without stopping.Moose are unlike many other deer species in that they are mostly solitary animals. However, strong bonds exist between mothers and calves.The moose population in North America is estimated to be fewer than 1.5 million, with 1 million in Canada alone. Up to 200,000 are estimated to live in Alaska.Moose are herbivores, and eat a large amount of terrestrial vegetation, but they also must need to consume a good amount of aquatic plants which provide moose with sodium.Moose must consume 9770 calories per day to maintain their body weight.A moose will eat up to 70.5 pounds of food a day.If a bull moose is castrated, he will shed his current set of antlers and grow new, deformed and misshapen antlers which will never be shed again. These antlers are often called "devil's antlers" and are the source of several Native American myths. In rare cases, cow moose may grow antlers due to a hormone imbalance.Because of their heavy bodies suspended by spindly legs, moose are especially dangerous when hit by passenger cars. If you are driving in an area where moose are plentiful, use caution and pay attention at all times.Moose antlers may weigh up to 70 pounds, and measure 6 feet across.
