MOOSE MIGRATION: NORTHEASTERN ALASKA TO NORTHWESTERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA

• Main Author: Mauer, Francis J.
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Lakehead University 1998
• Subjects: Canada; Old Crow Flats; Yukon; Alces alces; Brooks Range; Old Crow; Alaska
• Online Access: http://alcesjournal.org/index.php/alces/article/view/711

A study of moose (Alces alces gigas) movements and population identity in the southeasters Brooks Range, Alaska, was initiated in March 1995. Fifty-seven moose (43 females and 14 males) were captured and equipped with radio transmitters in 4 major drainage where moose are known to congregate during winter. Relocations indicated that 88% of the collared animals migrated seasonally. A majority of migrations (86%) moved to Old Crow Flats, in the Yukon Territory, where they remained for the summer. The mean maximum distance between summer and winter ranges was 123 km (range: 18-196, SD 37.2). Movements to summer range were underway in late March when moose were captured. Moose began moving to winter ranges in late August, and the migration was complete by the rut in early October.