Moose count remains steady

This year’s population estimate of 3,290 moose marks a decade of Minnesota’s moose population remaining relatively stable, according to the results of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ 2023 aerial population survey.

Although the estimate dropped from 2022’s estimate of 4,700, the change continues to reflect the population stability observed in previous years. After a decline from a population estimate of approximately 8,000 in 2009, Minnesota’s moose population appears to have stabilized at 3,700.

Data collected by researchers with the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa suggest the magnitude of this year’s decline could be more than an artifact of sampling. They have reported high mortality rates on collared moose and similar decreases in aerial surveys in Grand Portage and Isle Royale.