
The Moose
Moose can spend almost a full minute underwater while feeding on pond lilies and other freshwater plants.
The moose is found all over Newfoundland and in southern Labrador. The populations of moose around the province fluctuate with the availability of food and other factors, but during some years the provincial population has been estimated to go as high as 160,000 animals.
The moose is the largest member of the deer family. Large males can stand over 2 metres (7 feet) tall and weigh over 545 kilograms (1200 pounds). Females are slightly smaller but are still taller than other provincial animals. The colour is usually deep brown, but there is some variation. The heavier winter coat tends to be longer, thicker, and lighter in colour than the summer coat. A flap of skin known as the bell hangs down from the throat.
Mating takes place in the fall as the forests fill with the angry bellowing challenges of the bulls and the moaning calls of the cows. Bulls have been known to chase people and attack vehicles at this time of year - which is usually referred to as the "rut". Females with young calves are also dangerous. Calves are usually born in late May. They stay with the mother until the following spring. After mating, the moose often gather in "yards" or valleys featuring a good supply of food and shelter from the winter winds.
The moose is an animal of forest and pond. During summer, waterlilies and a variety of aquatic plants are favourite foods. The leaves of birch, alder, and fir trees together with a host of smaller woodland and marshland plants are also eaten.
Moose can be found almost anywhere. In the early 1990s a moose walked into a St. John's supermarket, and every year the province's capital city is visited by moose. Every community south of Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Labrador, has its moose stories.
Moose pose a serious hazard on the highway, especially in the hours between dusk and dawn. They are unpredictable around moving vehicles and will sometimes panic. These frightened moose often doom themselves and the people in the vehicle to a dangerous collision. Almost every Newfoundlander and Labradorian knows somebody who has had a frightening experience or a more serious incident with a moose. When you drive at night anywhere in the province, always be alert for these animals.
A slow drive along many of our highways will often bring about moose sightings. Moose alert signs are posted in many areas where moose are commonly seen; although once you are in the woods away from communities, you almost always have some chance of finding a moose. Look for them in forest clearings and near ponds or rivers. The National Parks provide especially good moose watching opportunities.
At Red Indian Lake lodge,every year we harvest bulls in the 45-48 inch range with 35 being the average. To hunt the moose we use several techniques,we call imitating either a cow or another bull,spot and stock,and travelling abandoned logging roads finding moose feeding on the young growth. Method of travell while hunting varys from use of pick-up trucks,4x4 quads,8x8 argos boats and walking.we can make for an easy hunt or more challengeing depending on the hunters capibility.
It is a thrilling experience when this animal answer the call of an experienced guide during the rut and comes thrashing throw the woods.
We've got what it takes
As with any big game trophy, you'll not carry this prize on your back. We have 8x8 argos that we usethe tools and the know-how to properly clean your prize as well as provide ATVs for transport.
If you can take it down... we'll truck it out.
Have questions?
Feel free to ask our knowledgable staff regarding regulations, licence fees, season dates, pursuing techniques, or anything you might need. We're more than happy to help.
Government of Newfoundland & Labrador:
Hunting regulations & Licence information
Consult our staff for any questions.
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