The moose is the official state animal of Alaska, with males growing large antlers and weighing over 1,000 pounds. They inhabit wooded and rural areas, but can also be found in populated areas. Other recognized animals in Alaska include the bowhead whale, willow ptarmigan, Alaskan Malamute, king salmon, and the four-spot skimmer dragonfly.
The moose, which is a large animal in the deer family, is the official state animal of Alaska. The male moose, often referred to as a bull, will grow large, crescent-shaped antlers on its head when it reaches maturity. A female is commonly referred to as a cow moose. Moose inhabit the wooded and rural areas of Alaska and can also be found in some towns and villages. It wasn’t until 1998 that this colossal mammal was designated the official state animal of Alaska.
Although several members of the deer family are native to Alaska, including caribou and mule deer, the Alaska moose is the largest of these. Male Alaskan moose can weigh more than 1,000 pounds (453 kilograms). One of the best-known physical characteristics of the Alaskan state animal is an elongated face that leans forward slightly. The Alaskan moose’s long legs support its strong, muscular body. A large fur-trimmed flap of skin can be seen hanging loosely under the moose’s chin.
Other characteristics of the Alaskan moose are its contrasting colors. The legs are gray, while the animal’s body is dark brown. All moose also have a hump on the shoulder.
Alaska moose feed on vegetation, such as aquatic plants and various types of tree bark. These huge land mammals are good swimmers and often swim great distances in search of food. On land, the moose can reach high speeds, though not as fast as the lightest and most agile members of the deer family.
The Alaskan state animal generally prefers to dwell in wooded areas. It is not uncommon, however, to see moose foraging in populated areas during the cold winter months. Ranchers are often faced with crop-destroying moose, especially when the animal’s food source is scarce.
Several other animals have been specially recognized by the state of Alaska, although the moose is the best known and is the official state animal of Alaska. Alaska’s state marine mammal is the bowhead whale. Various bird species are also indigenous to Alaska, with the willow ptarmigan being the official state bird. The Alaskan Malamute, with its thick, dense coat and ability to pull racing sleds, is the state’s official dog breed. King salmon is the state fish of Alaska and is abundant in many ponds and streams.
Very few U.S. states have designated official state bugs, although Alaska has. Alaska’s state bug is the four-spot skimmer dragonfly, which is commonly seen during the hot summer months. These insects, found in Alaska and other areas of North America, are often referred to as 12-spot skimmers.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
