The Northern Ontario Moose

posted May 13, 2008 - 5:21pm

The Northern Ontario Moose

Cow Moose

The moose, (Alces Alces), in Europe, known as the elk, they are the largest extant species of the deer family. Here in Northern Ontario, they are also known as "Bullwinkle", "ditch donkeys", "swamp donkeys" and, occasionally "roadkill" - I personally don't care for that last one but unfortunately it is quite common.

Isn't she pretty?

This old gal was having her dinner in the ditch, thankfully, she wasn't standing on the centreline (this photo was taken today). Right now, her coat is mottled and scruffy looking because she hasn't quite finished losing the winter coat. We were able to pull up right beside her and she seemed to be very secure hiding behind those tag alders and baby birch trees.

Moose, bears, wolves and foxes are among many of the various wildlife spotted on a daily basis in this area.