How Big Is A Moose Compared To A Person? Comparing the size of a moose to a human is a fascinating way to appreciate the sheer scale of these magnificent creatures. At COMPARE.EDU.VN, we delve into the dimensions of moose versus humans, offering a clear perspective. Explore moose and human comparison, understanding their relative sizes and physical attributes with the help of our size comparison information.
1. Moose Size Comparison by Subspecies
Moose, inhabitants of the northern climes, have several subspecies scattered throughout North America and Europe. Understanding their sizes is crucial when discussing how they measure up against humans. Let’s examine the size variations among the primary North American moose subspecies.
1.1. Alaska Moose (Alces alces gigas)
The Alaska moose, also called the Yukon moose in Canada, holds the title of the largest moose subspecies. Residing in Alaska’s boreal and deciduous forests, these giants can weigh between 1,200 and 1,600 pounds and stand almost 7 feet tall at the shoulder. Females typically weigh over 1,000 pounds, highlighting their substantial size. One notable Alaska moose, recorded by Safari Club International (SCI), weighed 1,800 pounds, showcasing the extreme end of their size range. Their impressive antlers further enhance their imposing stature.
1.2. Northwestern Moose (Alces alces andersoni)
The Northwestern moose, found in western Canada and parts of the northern United States, is the second-largest moose subspecies in North America. These moose can reach a height of over 6½ feet at the shoulder and weigh close to 1,600 pounds. Consuming around 10,000 calories daily, they require substantial vegetation to sustain their large bodies. The largest Northwestern moose recorded in the SCI books scored 557 inches, demonstrating the impressive dimensions these animals can achieve. Their robust size and significant dietary needs emphasize their prominent presence in their habitat.
1.3. Eastern Moose (Alces alces americana)
Eastern moose, inhabiting regions from Maine to Quebec, are a significant presence in the northeastern parts of North America. These moose can weigh up to 1,400 pounds and stand 6 feet tall at the shoulder. While slightly smaller than the Alaska and Northwestern moose, they are still considerably larger than most other animals in their environment. The largest Eastern moose in the SCI books scored an impressive 666 3/8 inches, highlighting their capacity for substantial growth and size. Hunting opportunities exist for Eastern moose, particularly in Newfoundland and eastern Canada, attracting those seeking to experience these animals firsthand.
1.4. Shiras Moose (Alces alces shirasi)
Shiras moose, residing in the Rocky Mountains of the western U.S. and Canada, are the smallest of the North American moose subspecies. Despite being the smallest, they are still quite large, with bulls weighing up to 1,200 pounds and standing 6 feet at the shoulder. The SCI record for the largest Shiras moose was set by a bull that scored 504 7/8 inches, showcasing their impressive size even within the context of their subspecies. Their presence in the southern reaches of moose country highlights their adaptability and resilience in diverse environments.
2. Moose vs. Human Size Comparison
Comparing the size of a moose to that of a human provides a striking visual of their physical dominance. Understanding this comparison can help appreciate the challenges and respect required when encountering these animals in the wild.
2.1. Height Comparison
When considering height, the tallest recorded human, Robert Pershing Wadlow, stood at an astonishing 8 feet 11 inches, surpassing the tallest moose ever recorded at 7 feet 7 inches. However, the average human height is significantly less. The average bull moose stands around a foot taller than the average human, making them an imposing figure. This height advantage is particularly noticeable when observing a moose at the shoulder, where they often stand at least 6 feet tall, well above the average human’s shoulder height.
2.2. Weight Comparison
In terms of weight, moose substantially outweigh humans. The heaviest moose on record tipped the scales at approximately 1,800 pounds, dwarfing the heaviest human, Jon Brower Minnoch, who weighed around 1,400 pounds. The typical adult human weighs considerably less than both of these extremes. This weight difference underscores the moose’s massive build and robust physical presence. The sheer mass of a moose, combined with its height, makes it a formidable creature in any encounter.
2.3. Calf vs. Child
Even from birth, the size difference is notable. A newborn Alaska moose calf weighs around 28 pounds, which is comparable to the weight of a 3-year-old child. However, the growth trajectory of a moose calf is drastically different. Moose calves gain approximately 2 pounds per day initially, later increasing to 5 pounds per day. In contrast, the average human child gains only about 5 pounds per year between the ages of 2 and 5. This rapid growth rate highlights the moose’s accelerated development and the stark contrast in size and growth compared to humans.
3. Moose Size Compared to Other Animals
To further illustrate the imposing size of moose, comparing them to other well-known animals provides additional perspective. These comparisons help contextualize their size within the broader animal kingdom.
3.1. Compared to an Elephant
An average bull Alaska moose is significantly smaller than an African elephant. African elephants can grow up to 13 feet tall and weigh between 5,000 and 14,000 pounds. While a moose is large relative to many other animals, it is dwarfed by the sheer size and mass of an elephant. This comparison emphasizes the extreme scale of the largest land animals and places the moose within a broader context of animal sizes.
3.2. Compared to Bison
Bison, another large North American mammal, can weigh up to 2,000 pounds and stand 6 feet at the shoulder. While bison are heavier than most moose, the heaviest recorded Alaska moose still comes close in weight. Both animals are substantial, but bison generally have a more robust build. The comparison highlights the comparable sizes of these two iconic North American species and underscores their significant presence in their respective ecosystems.
3.3. Compared to Elk
Bull moose are significantly larger than bull elk. A large elk typically weighs just over 1,000 pounds and stands around 5 feet tall at the shoulder, which is comparable to the size of a female Alaska moose. Even a bull Shiras moose, the smallest subspecies, is larger than a bull elk. This comparison clearly demonstrates the moose’s dominance in size among deer species. The stark difference in weight and height underscores the moose’s impressive stature compared to other large ungulates.
3.4. Compared to a Horse
The average quarter horse is similar in size to a bull Shiras moose, weighing around 1,200 pounds. Historically, there have even been instances of people riding moose. The largest horse ever recorded, an English shire gelding named Sampson, weighed an astounding 3,359 pounds and stood 7 feet 2.5 inches tall at the shoulder, making it slightly shorter than the largest Alaska bull moose on record. This comparison illustrates the parallel in size between moose and horses, with both species showcasing significant physical presence and strength.
4. Interesting Facts About Moose
Moose are fascinating creatures with unique characteristics. Exploring some interesting facts can deepen our understanding and appreciation of these animals.
4.1. Rapid Antler Growth
Moose antlers are among the fastest-growing animal tissues on Earth. Shed annually like other deer, moose antlers regrow remarkably quickly. They can add up to a pound of bone per day, totaling up to 80 pounds over the course of a summer. This rapid growth highlights the moose’s efficient biological processes and the significant investment they make in antler development each year. The impressive speed and scale of antler growth are a testament to the moose’s unique physiology.
4.2. Higher Injury Rate Than Bears
Moose injure more people than bears do in certain regions. While not intentionally aggressive, their large size and territorial nature can lead to encounters resulting in human injuries. In Alaska, moose injure five to ten people every year on average, surpassing injuries caused by both grizzly and black bear attacks. This higher injury rate underscores the importance of maintaining a safe distance and respecting their space in areas where moose are prevalent.
4.3. Largest Deer Species
Moose are the largest of all deer species. The sheer size of a moose is remarkable, with an average moose weighing around ten times more than the average whitetail deer. To put it in perspective, it would take 53 South American pudus, the smallest of all deer, to weigh as much as one bull moose. This comparison highlights the moose’s dominant size within the deer family and emphasizes its unique position in the animal kingdom.
4.4. Calf Speed
Moose calves grow rapidly and can outrun a human just five days after being born. In a world filled with predators, these young moose need to develop quickly. Adult moose can charge at speeds of around 35 mph for short distances. This impressive speed ensures that moose calves have a fighting chance to escape danger and underscores the rapid development they undergo in their early lives.
4.5. Poor Eyesight
Moose have poor eyesight but compensate with excellent senses of smell and hearing. Their large nostrils and sensitive nasal cavities allow them to separate smells and determine their direction. Additionally, scientists believe that their dish-shaped antlers help amplify the sounds of calling females, aiding solitary bulls during mating season. This combination of sensory adaptations highlights how moose rely on senses other than sight to navigate and thrive in their environments.
5. Table: Moose Subspecies Size Comparison
| Subspecies | Average Weight (Bulls) | Average Height at Shoulder | Habitat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska Moose | 1,200 – 1,600 pounds | ~7 feet | Boreal and deciduous forests of Alaska |
| Northwestern Moose | Nearly 1,600 pounds | Over 6½ feet | Boreal forests of western Canada |
| Eastern Moose | Up to 1,400 pounds | 6 feet | Maine, Quebec, and surrounding areas |
| Shiras Moose | Up to 1,200 pounds | 6 feet | Rocky Mountains of western U.S. |
6. Conclusion
The comparison of moose to humans reveals the impressive scale and unique adaptations of these majestic creatures. From their imposing height and weight to their rapid antler growth and sensory compensations, moose stand out as remarkable animals in the natural world. By understanding their size relative to humans and other animals, we can better appreciate the challenges and respect required when encountering them in their habitats. For more detailed comparisons and insights, visit COMPARE.EDU.VN at 333 Comparison Plaza, Choice City, CA 90210, United States, or contact us via Whatsapp at +1 (626) 555-9090.
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7. FAQs
- How tall is the average moose compared to a person?
The average bull moose stands about a foot taller than the average human. - What is the weight difference between a moose and a human?
Moose can weigh significantly more than humans, with the heaviest moose on record weighing around 1,800 pounds. - How fast do moose calves grow?
Moose calves grow rapidly, gaining about 2 pounds per day initially and later increasing to 5 pounds per day. - What is the largest subspecies of moose?
The Alaska moose is the largest subspecies, with bulls weighing between 1,200 and 1,600 pounds and standing almost 7 feet tall at the shoulder. - Do moose have good eyesight?
No, moose have poor eyesight but compensate with excellent senses of smell and hearing. - Are moose dangerous to humans?
Moose can be dangerous due to their large size and territorial nature, and they injure more people than bears in certain regions. - How big are moose antlers?
Moose antlers can grow up to a pound of bone per day, totaling up to 80 pounds over the course of a summer. - Where do Shiras moose live?
Shiras moose live in the Rocky Mountains of the western U.S. and Canada. - How much do Northwestern moose weigh?
Northwestern moose can weigh nearly 1,600 pounds. - What is the average height of an Eastern moose?
Eastern moose typically stand 6 feet tall at the shoulder.
