09/09/2025
Alces Alces - Jefferson, Colorado
Did you know that Colorado, along with the rest of the Rocky Mountain states, is home to a unique subspecies of moose?
Known as the Shiras moose, they are noticeably smaller than their northern relatives, the massive Alaskan moose which stands about a foot taller at the shoulders. This difference lends support to Bergmann’s Rule, which suggests that within a species, the largest of animals within that species are typically found in colder, northern climates.
Shiras moose will also typically give birth to just one calf at a time, compared to the two more common in their larger cousins. Despite their smaller stature, they still tower over most, however. After all, everything is relative.
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