The Shiras moose, a subspecies of the largest member of the deer family, is definitively established in Washington State. Once nearly absent, the population has experienced significant growth and range expansion over the last five decades. This natural re-colonization has led to a thriving population, primarily in the state’s northeastern corner. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) actively monitors and manages the moose population to ensure its long-term health. Management efforts track their distribution, understand their demographics, and provide guidance for safe public interaction.
Geographic Distribution and Habitat
The core region for Washington’s Shiras moose is concentrated in the northeastern corner of the state, particularly across the Selkirk and Kettle Mountains. The highest density is found within Pend Oreille, Stevens, and Ferry counties, with a presence also noted in Spokane County. This region offers the ideal mix of mountainous terrain and dense forest cover the species requires.
Moose prefer habitats with an abundance of water and dense cover, making riparian areas and wetlands highly attractive. They are frequently found near stream bottoms, lakes, and marshes, where they feed on aquatic plants and woody vegetation. High-elevation forests, willow thickets, and regenerating brush provide necessary forage and thermal protection.
A smaller population is established in the North Cascades, primarily within Okanogan County. Moose are highly dependent on readily available water and forage, and their presence often follows major water courses. Their continued expansion suggests that their distribution is not static and is likely to spread into other suitable habitats.
Population History and Management Status
Moose were largely absent from Washington for much of the early 20th century, with only sporadic sightings reported. The first physical evidence of a permanent return was found in the 1950s in the Selkirk Mountains. By the 1970s, a small, resident population was established in Pend Oreille County, resulting from natural re-colonization from Idaho and Canada.
The population expanded steadily, leading to a significant increase in numbers throughout the northeast region. The last major abundance estimate, conducted in 2016, concluded there were approximately 5,000 moose in the core management area. The WDFW manages the species through careful monitoring, recognizing the population’s unique history.
Management actions include conducting aerial surveys to determine population counts, sex ratios, and calf survival rates. The WDFW also uses GPS collaring on female moose to gather detailed data on survival, movement, and habitat use, which informs conservation efforts. Hunting is strictly controlled through a limited-entry special permit lottery system to ensure the harvest remains sustainable.
Viewing Moose Safely
Moose are massive animals, with adult bulls weighing between 850 and 1,100 pounds, and they should be approached with caution. Despite their size, they are surprisingly fast and unpredictable, often choosing to defend themselves rather than flee. Maintaining a substantial distance from any moose is the most effective safety measure.
Specific situations increase the potential for aggressive behavior, such as a cow protecting its calf or a bull during the autumn rutting season. Never position yourself between a cow and her offspring, as this is a common trigger for a defensive charge. Signs of irritation include ears laid back, raised shoulder hair, or a stomping of the front hooves.
If a moose signals an attack or begins to charge, retreat quickly and place a large obstacle, such as a tree or boulder, between yourself and the animal. Moose do not pursue a threat over a long distance. If knocked down, curl into a ball and protect your head and neck until the animal has moved a safe distance away.