COLORADO MOOSE: REINTRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Moose (Alces alces shirasi) were trapped in Utah in 1978, Wyoming in 1979 and in 1987, and were released in two mountain parks in north central Colorado. The 24 moose released in 1978 and 1979 have increased to approximately 250 animals statewide by 1988 despite known illegal loss of 40 moose. Emigration of over 100 km from the original release site has established additional breeding populations. A moose management unit was established, and limited hunting for 3 to 5 bulls annually began in 1985. In 1987, 12 additional moose were trapped in Wyoming and released approximately 50 km northeast of the original release site to establish a second herd and to increase expansion potential. A management plan, developed in 1986-97, outlines current and future population estimates, inventory, habitat monitoring, harvest projections, public concerns, public relation efforts to reduce illegal kill, consumptive and nonconsumptive uses, current and future management plans, game damage, and future reintroductions in Colorado.