The local moose usually leave town during the coldest parts of the winter and return in the spring. We often see them in our field, across the street from our house, nibbling at the tips of the tree branches. This year, though, has been no ordinary one. The snow is deeper than usual and the winter was much colder than the recent normal. So, the moose may have delayed their return.
Finally, though, the moose have returned. A few days ago, I saw tracks near the chicken coop. The clear difference in sizes strongly suggested it was a cow with a calf.
Moose often walk in and out of our driveway, pass between our house and garage, sometimes circle the house, and sometimes use the path to the chicken coop to access the wooded area between the adjacent lots.
Today, there were some well-defined tracks in the hard-packed snow in the driveway. The main image shows the print of a moose calf. Based on the size of my hand, the hooves are about 4.5” long.
There is also clear evidence they have been spending time in the field near the willow trees. It is too early for any buds, but the tips of the branches are still appealing to the moose because of their larger proportion of bark to wood.
The cow moose left prints about 5.5” long. Unfortunately, she only walked in the softer snow and there wasn’t enough contrast to make for a good picture.
Although the experience of seeing a moose outside the window is not uncommon, it is still a pleasant surprise and the feeling of anticipation has prompted us to look more frequently to check the yard and driveway for visitors. With luck, we’ll soon have pictures of the actual moose to share.
Hip! Hip! Hurray!
It even excites ME to know you have such wonderful visitors to your snowy abode and environs.
The way you took the pictures is really good, as well. It informs the viewer in a personal way.
I’m glad you didn’t expect me to hold my hand too close to the droppings.