The presence of moose in Michigan represents a success story for wildlife conservation. These animals, the largest members of the deer family, can stand over six feet tall at the shoulder and weigh more than a thousand pounds. Moose are a native species that were nearly eliminated from the region, but dedicated restoration efforts have secured their footing in the state’s most remote areas. Their survival is tied to the specific habitat conditions of the northern landscape, which provides the necessary food and refuge for this cold-adapted mammal.
Current Geographic Distribution
Moose are found almost exclusively within Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, with their range split into two populations. The larger, primary herd is concentrated in the western Upper Peninsula, primarily across the counties of Marquette, Baraga, and Iron. This area, known as the Michigamme Highlands, offers an ideal mix of dense boreal forests and low-lying, swampy terrain that moose prefer.
Moose are herbivores that thrive in environments with access to fresh water and young, regenerating forest growth. They spend considerable time near ponds and wetlands, feeding on rooted aquatic vegetation, which is a significant part of their summer diet. They also browse on the shoots of woody plants like aspen and red maple found in recently logged or disturbed areas. A smaller, isolated remnant population also exists in the eastern Upper Peninsula, with scattered individuals found in parts of Alger, Schoolcraft, Luce, and Chippewa counties.
Population Status and Historical Context
Moose were once widespread throughout Michigan, but by the 19th century, unregulated hunting and the loss of mature forests had reduced their numbers to nearly zero on the mainland. An initial attempt to reintroduce the species in the 1930s, using 63 moose translocated from Isle Royale, ultimately failed due to factors including high rates of brainworm parasite infection and habitat unsuitability.
The modern population is the result of a concerted effort in the mid-1980s known as the “Moose Lift.” This effort transported 59 moose from Algonquin Provincial Park in Ontario, Canada, and released them into the western Upper Peninsula. Aerial surveys conducted by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) estimate the core western population to be around 426 individuals, based on the 2023 count. The smaller, eastern population is estimated to be fewer than 100 individuals.
While the population experienced steady growth of about 10% annually between 1997 and 2007, that rate has slowed to less than 1% per year since 2009. This stagnation has prompted research to identify limiting factors, such as the impacts of rising temperatures, increased parasitic loads like winter ticks, and low productivity rates. The current distribution remains segregated because the suitable habitat, defined by the right mix of forage, water, and lower deer density to limit brainworm exposure, is confined to these northern regions.
Viewing Hotspots and Behavioral Tips
Focusing on the core western range provides the best opportunity for viewing. Areas near Van Riper State Park, the Michigamme Highlands, and along the Tracy Creek and Peshekee Grade Roads in Marquette and Baraga counties are known for frequent sightings. In the eastern Upper Peninsula, the area surrounding Newberry, which proclaims itself the “Official Moose Capital of Michigan,” and the Seney National Wildlife Refuge are reliable locations.
Moose are most active during the twilight hours of dawn and dusk, as they move out of dense cover to feed. The late spring and early summer are favorable because the animals are drawn to open marshy areas and aquatic plants. Fall is also a good season, as bull moose become more mobile during the rutting season. Viewers should always maintain a significant distance from moose, particularly cows with calves and bulls during the rut, as they can be unpredictable and dangerous if they perceive a threat.