Moose also live in the wetlands of Colorado State Park where there is an excellent visitor center focused on moose. Since that time, the moose population has been on the rise. Moose may live for up to 20 years in the wild. Sometimes a moose visits Estes Park and the area south of the Park near I70. Author David Petersen spent years researching grizzlies in Colorado … Cows give birth in May and June. Home to thousands of elk, mule deer, marmots, bighorns, and the occasional black bear. They would wander into northern Colorado from Wyoming every so often but never stayed long enough to establish a stable population, according to CPW. Before long, North Park’s moose population was doing so well that some were moved to the upper Rio Grande drainage. BRECKENRIDGE, Colo. — A woman, in an effort to warn others of the dangers of moose, posted a video on social media of a moose charging skiers and snowboarders at a ski resort. Following the moose of Silverton, Colorado. Tori Peglar is Co-Brand and Content Director of National Park Trips. Make the most of your time by following our itinerary covering both sides of the park. If you do happen to encounter an angry moose it is best to leave slowly and not provoke the animal. Bulls begin breeding activities by setting up territories, and attract cows by calling with a low grunting sound that resonates across the willow bottoms. However, early settlers and miners observed and occasionally harvested individual animals. Moose Visitor Center: Operated by the Colorado State Forest State Park and located near the former logging camp of Gould, the Center features info on the park, local history, moose and other wildlife. It's relatively rare to see a moose in Colorado; most of those animals in Estes Park are elk, but you can find moose there sometimes. Watching these enormous animals move is captivating. The largest moose specimens are found in Alaska and eastern Siberia; there bulls weigh 600 kg (1,300 pounds) and stand 2 metres (7 feet) tall at the shoulder. The obvious list of Colorado wildlife might include the black bear, mule deer, and rainbow trout, but what about the lesser known, seldom seen… Adventures Blast down a 1,200-foot long snow chute at this tubing hill in Colorado Hunting moose is legal in Colorado and popular. This early population thrived and some moved into the Laramie River Valley. White-tails have smaller ears, antlers with a single main beam bearing smaller tines, and of course, white tails. Rangers suggest heading up the Kawuneeche Valley and also the Colorado River near Timber Creek Campground on the west side of the park. Shape - Their long head, overhanging snout, and a pendulant flap of skin of varying sizes hanging from their throat ("bell") give moose an unmistakable silhouette when observed in the wild. NOVEMBER 2013 COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE roadway Denver CO pw.state.co.us. Bulls stand up to 6 feet at the shoulder. Moose are known to return to a favorite feeding ground with surprising regularity each year which makes it easier for rangers to predict where they will be. Rocky Mountain National Park. In 1978, Colorado wildlife managers arranged for the first transplant of 12 moose to Colorado’s North Park region near Walden. These animals were likely young bulls that had dispersed from established herds in Utah and Wyoming. North Park isn't called the Moose Viewing Capital of Colorado for nothing. Moose are most comfortable in cold damp environments. That’s far from the case today. Please turn on JavaScript and try again. Not only do the moose provide recreational opportunities for sportspeople, they have also become a main attraction for all who enjoy watching wildlife. This moose, a 2-year-old cow, had quite a traumatic day in Colorado Springs. The Shiras Moose was introduced in Jackson County in 1978 with a very small introductory herd of 12. These strays were probably just transient animals seeking new habitats, but they never came in large enough numbers to establish a stable population here. As long as there are aquatic grasses and willows to feed on, they will stay in the same area. Moose are seen year-round in all these locations. In recognition of this wildlife phenomena, the state legislature designated Walden as the "Moose Viewing Capital of Colorado" in 1995. These antlers are shed in early winter and re-grown each year. Learn how Colorado Parks and Wildlife tracks not only moose, but other wildlife in the area through the use of remote collars. She specializes in writing inspiring national park travelogues, foodie adventures and personal, heartfelt stories of people who shape our culture. In Minnesota, the moose population has decreased by 55 percent since 2006, a … (Via Colorado Parks and Wildlife Twitter) We can only assume it was a traumatic day for one unsuspecting moose. They are true giants! Biologists think moose might have been expanding their ranges slowly southward and may have established themselves in Colorado on their own. Unlike Elk, which can have several mates at the same time, moose typically stick to one cow at a time. CULTURAL AND NATURAL HERITAGE. This decrease has been correlated to the opening of roadways and landscapes into this animal's north range. Colorado’s multiplying moose stand out at a time when the species is dwindling elsewhere. Start looking along Trail Ridge Road from the Colorado River Trailhead all the way to Grand Lake. Look for moose in areas with aquatic vegetation and willows. Visitors may see moose at almost any time of the day. Moose have long legs, which allow them to traverse deep winter snows and thick willow habitat types. 756 likes. Traveling typically in small groups, moose feed on water plants, aspen, and willow. The best place to see moose is the western side of RMNP and in the Grand Lake area. If you do happen to see a moose make sure to remember they are wild and unpredictable. Right now, one hunter each year gets the chance to shoot a bull moose in the Roaring Fork River valley, in Game Management Unit 43, which includes lands from Aspen to Glenwood Springs on the southeast side of Colorado 82. Moose aren't the most eloquent creatures, but they sure are cool. When viewing Colorado moose on a jeep tour near Vail, it’s important to listen to your guide’s safety instructions. Their thick, dark brown coat appears black at a distance, and enables them to stay warm in the coldest winters. In 1987 a transplant of 12 moose from Wyoming helped establish a strong population in that valley as well. Be SMART! It looks like your browser does not have JavaScript enabled. Yearling bulls sport small spikes or small plates, with antlers increasing in size as the bulls mature. There are Moose on the Loose 07/13/2017 01:20PM By Dan Greeson Colorado’s Shiras moose are the largest big game animals in the state. As soon as an animal begins changing its behavior in reaction to you, you’re too close. I've seen moose every time I've gone to Yellowstone, but I specifically look for them when I go. There were 16,500 applicants for 219 moose hunting licenses and 185 moose were harvested in 2012. Wildlife managers and biologists, however, decided to give the moose a boost in the right direction. Until the late 1970s, moose were rare in Colorado. Nearby Hotels. Wildlife in a natural habitat should always be respected and viewed from a distance. Hike three uncrowded trails in Rocky Mountain National Park: Sky Pond, Moraine Park to Bear Lake, and the Tonahutu Creek/North Inlet Loop. One thing is for certain. But until the late 1970s it was rare to catch a glimpse of moose in Colorado, even though there are records of moose sightings as far back as the 1850s, according to an Aspen Daily News article. Since moose on a whole don't have the best eyesight it is imperative you do not approach them. Mule deer have rope-like tails, evenly forked antlers and large ears. “There are no grizzlies in Colorado or the South San Juans,” Joe Lewandowski with the CPW said in an email. Where to see elk, when to see them, where to park, and elk watching etiquette at Rocky Mountain National Park. The state's moose populations are thriving, thanks to successful reintroduction efforts by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. A personalized guide to help you decide where to spend the night, from car camping paradise and remote backcountry sites to RV heaven. Biologists speculate that there may have been greater moose populations in Colorado 100 years ago, but up to about 20 years ago hardly anyone ever saw a moose in Colorado… Another great spot is along the Colorado River up by Lulu City, also on the west side of the park. Silverton Moose Watch, Silverton, Colorado. Both bulls and cows are aggressive during the breeding season, with bulls often fighting head to head until the dominant bull drives off, injures, or even kills the challenger. Although fewer in number on the east side and rarer to see, moose can sometimes be found in the marshy areas around Sprague Lake and Cub Lake. Between 1991 and 1992 about 100 moose from Wyoming, Utah, and North Park were released in southern Colorado near Creede. Sagebrush & Sage Species Conservation Strategy, Be SMART! Here's why it's a problem ... and there’s still so much experts don’t understand about how … Tags in Colorado are extremely difficult to draw and with the increase in Moose populations in this region, there are some giant bulls that inhabit the area. While the moose population in other states has declined, Colorado’s moose population continues to grow. A moose near the mile marker 171 exit Sunday on eastbound I-70 in Dowd Junction. Moose are more likely to live in riparian (areas located along rivers, streams, and lakes) habitats with willows, which is their primary food source. Coloring - Their rumps are brown, not white or cream colored as found in deer, elk, or pronghorn. It may be hard to believe, but until 20 years ago hardly anyone ever saw a moose in Colorado, let alone hunted one. Rattlesnake. Though a bit of a hike, moose are known to graze here and the seasonal springtime wildflowers are spectacular. Moose aren't small. Know what to do in case of a bear encounter, but don't worry, odds are you'll never know they are there. These initial moose came from Utah, and, in 1979, another dozen from Wyoming were released in the same region, in the Illinois River drainage. Size - Colorado’s Shiras moose (Alces alces shirasi) are Colorado’s largest big game animal with adults weighing 800 to 1,200 pounds. Twins are common in good habitat, and triplets have been documented. Moose in Kawuneeche Valley on the west side of the park. The nativity of moose in Colorado is a subject of debate. Colorado Moose: Viewing Safety. Moose can be found in sagebrush, high in the mountains above timberline, as well in the more traditional willow, aspen, pine, and beaver pond-type habitats. Traveling in herds across open tundra and low-lying valleys, Elk are routinely considered the main wildlife attraction. The term moose comes from the Algonquin Indian word meaning "eater of twigs," and the most common place to find moose is where there is lots of brush for them to browse on. Their numbers have grown so dramatically that limited hunting is offered in North Park, Middle Park and the Laramie River area. By Allison Plean and Suzi Mitchell. The moose population in North America is shrinking swiftly. During September through November their mating season (rut) takes place as bulls seek out a mate. A couple hours north of Denver, the likelihood of seeing a moose is higher here than just about anyplace else in the Colorado (although not as good as the prime Canadian and Maine spots). Alaska-Yukon bulls are the heavyweights of the moose hunting world. Moose Viewing. There are moose-themed crafts for kiddos and if you feel like a hike, tag along with a wildlife guide. The smallest moose are found in its southernmost populations in Wyoming and Manchuria, where large bulls weigh 300–350 kg … The breeding season, or rut, begins in mid- to late September and runs through October. The place I've had the best luck in Colorado is along the western end of the border with Wyoming. Starting in late August, aspens in the highest reaches of the Park begin their annual quaking, a term to describe the aspens unique leaves changing a golden-yellow hue and how they react in wind. In 1987 a transplant of 12 moose from Wyoming helped establish a strong population in that valley as well. In Colorado, moose are most often found in North Park, near Walden, which bills itself as the "Moose Viewing Capital of Colorado." Adults can weigh between 800 and 1,200 pounds. If you're going to encounter a dangerous animal on the trail, there's a good chance it … That’s far from the case today. Each individual establishes a range and may stay in a given location for days or weeks. Unfortunately, having more moose around can present a challenge to motorists. Today, the state's moose populations are doing well with an estimated 2,500 living throughout the state, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife. However, since 1978, several … Seeing moose in the Park typically is not that difficult. Moose and Red Wing Blackbird at Sprague Lake on the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park. Take a scenic drive from Echo Lake near Idaho Springs on the 28-mile Mount Evans Scenic Byway and you’re… Visitors should remember that Trail Ridge Road is closed during the winter/spring season, so to get to the west side of the park from Estes Park, you will need to go around the south side of the park to get to Grand Lake. Since they are so large it's hard to miss them grazing in the low-lying valleys and wet areas near lakes. This depends on food availability and harassment. Visitors see moose fairly frequently along Highway 34 in the Kawuneeche Valley. This early population reproduced quickly, and some began to move into the Laramie River Valley. Antler conformation varies considerably, and it is not uncommon to see a bull moose, especially a younger bull moose, with antlers similar to those of an elk. Alaska-Yukon Moose The Alaska Yukon Moose is the largest moose subspecies AND of any antlered game in the world!. Colorado’s moose population now approaches 3,000 animals statewide. Moose live in all the areas in the North Park Region, so we will hunt them from the valley floor up to the tree line in the surrounding mountain ranges. They also do well in drier habitats of oakbrush, mountain mahogany, aspen and sagebrush. Moose can be seen most anywhere in the park. Elk can be spotted bugling and sparring, especially during their fall … Until the late 1970s, only a few stray moose would wander into northern Colorado from herds in Wyoming. Since Rocky Mountain National Park's creation in 1915, 280 species of birds have been spotted throughout the park and surrounding regions. What you should do if wildlife gets too close, ​​​Moose Reintroduction Fact Sheet, November 2013. Read how you can be a safe motorist in moose country. There are two species of deer in Colorado- mule deer and white-tailed deer. Photo by David Dietrich. The moose population has swelled in this Colorado national park. Standing over six feet tall and weighing between 600 and 1,600 pounds, moose are a common sight within Rocky Mountain National Park and a visitor favorite. Typically moose on guard either raise their head high, or dip their head to a low position. The state's moose populations are thriving, thanks to successful reintroduction efforts by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Only have 48 hours? Today, you’ll share the area with deer, elk and moose as well as birds of prey. Standing over six feet tall and weighing between 600 and 1,600 pounds, moose are a common sight within Rocky Mountain National Park and a visitor favorite. What you should do if wildlife gets too close.​, ​​​​​​Moose Reintroduction Fact Sheet, November 2013​ ​(2 MB), Moose Reintroduction Program - Grand Mesa. In 1979, another 12 from Wyoming were released in the same region in the Illinois River drainage. (credit: Lynda McCormick) A parks and wildlife spokesperson says they had nearly 40,000 applications … Antlers - Bull moose grow flattened, palmated antlers with points around the edge, reaching up to 5 feet wide in larger and older bulls. There is no evidence to suggest that breeding populations existed in Colorado before deliberate transplantation efforts during the late 1970s and early 1980s. The bell varies in size and is much larger on bulls. In spite of their size, they often go unnoticed as they spend a great deal of time in heavy, dark cover in willow bottoms and forests. Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) tells us moose from Wyoming were introduced here in 1978 because researchers believed Colorado had a great habitat for moose to thrive. Since the transplants, our moose have thrived and expanded their range into good habitats. These strays were probably just transient animals seeking new habitats, but they never came in large enough numbers to establish a st… Until the late 1970s, only a few stray moose would wander into northern Colorado from herds in Wyoming. It is not rare to see a cow traveling with her mate or calf close behind. The scenic drive in North Park also passes through good moose-spotting territory. In 1978, Colorado Parks and Wildlife first introduced 12 moose from Utah to the area west of the Never Summer Mountains near the town of Walden. It may be hard to believe, but until 20 years ago hardly anyone ever saw a moose in Colorado, let alone hunted one. 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