Moose Movement Patterns and Range Use in Northwestern Minnesota

During 1968-71, 3,881 observations were recorded on 36 marked moose (Alces alces) (21 bulls and 15 cows) on Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge in northwestern Minnesota. These data were used to calculate home ranges, habitat use patterns, and rates of movement. Home ranges during the summer and fall varied from 1.0 to 15.1 square miles, averaging 6.9 square miles for cows and 5.6 for bulls. Winter home ranges varied from 0.3 to 2.9 square miles, averaging 1.4 square miles for cows and 1.2 for bulls. About 20 percent of the Agassiz herd was found to be migratory; migration distances ranged from 9 to 21 miles. Rates of travel were greatest during the summer months (average, 0.6 mile/24-hour period). Bulls traveled widely during the rutting period while cows remained sedentary. Movements were generally greater at night than during the day. Moose preferred to use the more open willow (Salix spp.) type during the summer and fall months, but shifted to dense aspen (Populus tremuloides)--willow stands in late winter. Dispersal from wintering areas was associated with the disappearance of snow cover.