New York Moose Antlers Grow at a Record-Setting Rate

It's a very special time of the year for many wild animals in New York, and that includes the largest animal in the state.

Spring and summer mark many new beginnings. Deer are out with their fawns (learn when a fawn actually needs human help here), coyotes are spotted in the daytime, and moose are going on an incredible growth spurt for a very special reason.

It's a very special time of the year for moose in New York, where the males will undergo a record-setting transformation (NYS Department of Environmental Conservation via Facebook)

Moose Living in New York State

While moose are more popular further north, these giant animals have also been spotted in New York, including as far south as the Hudson Valley. No matter their location, male moose (known as bulls) are currently going through a transformation.

Now is the season that bull moose begin to grow their antlers in anticipation of mating season (NYS Department of Environmental Conservation via Facebook)

Record-Setting Growth for Bull Moose in New York

Recently, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation took to Facebook to share a fascinating fact about bull moose, and the growth spurt they are currently experiencing in one specific area of their body (below).

Bull Moose Growing Antlers in New York

"New York’s bull moose have begun growing a new set of antlers that they will use for sparring, making rubs and scrapes, and attracting the attention of [female moose]", they shared. Their antler growth also sets them apart from all other animals:

From May through August an adult bull’s antlers may grow up to an inch per day, making antlers the fastest growing tissue in any mammal. The growth and final size of a bull’s antlers is ultimately determined by four factors: the bull’s age, nutrition, health, and genetics

New York Moose Facts

Moose are one of the largest mammals in the world, and the biggest land animal in New York State. Male moose (bulls) can weigh up to 1,200 pounds and females (cows) can grow as large as 800 pounds.

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While moose do live in New York, moose sightings are still rare. Check out what happened when a slightly more common animal decided to crash the SUNY New Paltz campus below, and keep scrolling to see a moose on a New York beach.

Bear on Campus at SUNY New Paltz NY

On Thursday (June 23, 2022) this unassuming good-size black bear wandered onto campus and decided to climb a tree. The SUNY New Paltz Police along with the NYS DEC Police monitored the situation on-site. They were able to encourage the campus visitor to return home without incident.

Gallery Credit: Paty Quyn

Moose on Loose Strolls New York Beach

A moose was captured wandering Port Henry beach before heading back home to the forest where she belonged. An employee preparing to open the gates captured the majestic animal early one morning.

Gallery Credit: Credit - Polly McAdams

Filed Under: New York State DEC