Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Global Warming Hits Minnesota


We are loosing our Moose population here in Minnesota. Shorter winters, hotter summer days and natural phenomenon are all working against moose on the southern edge of their natural range. The animal can withstand deep snow and cold. But even days in the upper 70s take a toll.

Moose are hit hard by warm temperatures because of their black coat, back hair and inability to perspire. Moose can only lose heat by breathing faster. When moose are overheated they don't eat, and if they lose too much weight they may not survive winter. It's believed some die from heatstroke.

Fewer than 100 moose remain in northwest Minnesota, and there are about 7,600 in northeastern Minnesota.

God save our Moose!

- Jennifer

11 comments:

Verdant Earl said...

Why such a disparity between the Northwest and the Northeast? I dunno anything about Minnesota except the Twins and the Vikings. Is the Northwest more populated with cities/towns/etc...?

Unknown said...

Oh - that is just sad....

Gwen said...

My favorite moose was Bullwinkle. Is he still around?

Mama Dawg said...

Oh, man. That sucks. Are there any conservation efforts taking place?

Dr Zibbs said...

That largest hooved animal in North America. It's a fact!

Susie said...

I wonder why the moose are affected and not the deer?

Cowguy said...

I'm with Gwen, Bullwinkle rocks.

We had one of your meese down here a few years ago. Something went haywire in his mooseskull (new word)and instead of staying put or heading north, he came to Missouri. Probably for the beer and ambiance... I'm just guessing.

Maybe we've got all your mooseses. Maybe they're with my toad.

Just thinking out loud now.

J.

Anonymous said...

man it's tough being a moose

Anonymous said...

I bet if them mooses saw hot tub lizzy drop her towel they'd get to sweatin

Our Two Blessings From Above said...

I have never seen a moose here and would love to see one. I guess I will have to visit the NE in the winter. Interesting post!

Rhea said...

Save the moose! They're so cool. I've never run into one, we don't grow those in Texas, but I don't want them to die! Nooo!!!