Are Moose Smart?
Moose are smart and capable of problem-solving. Moose might seem to be dim-witted because of their cow-like expression and slow movements. Moose cannot recognize objects placed directly in front of them. Never stand directly in front of a moose because that is the moose’s blind spot. However, moose are intelligent animals that are capable of learning and problem-solving.
Moose Vision
Moose may take a long time to react to a dangerous object’s presence, such as an oncoming car, which may make them appear stupid. However, moose have poor eyesight in comparison to people. To see an object, a moose must place its head near it and roll its eyes up. Moose cannot see directly in front of them because their eyes are placed on the sides.
Moose also cannot see an approaching vehicle when they are most active at dawn and dusk. They can see headlights, but all they see is the light. They do not see vehicles behind the lights. Moose eyes may shine at night when light falls on the eyes, but that is just a reflection. The eyeshine does not mean that the moose sees oncoming objects.
Moose Learning
Moose can learn, although it is hard for biologists to test their knowledge. One example of moose learning behavior is seen in young bull moose. Immature bull moose learn how to fight years before they are large enough to challenge a bull in his prime. Older bulls may spar with younger bulls at the beginning of the rutting season. They play sparring games to learn how to fight. In contrast, mature bulls rarely participate in these games and go directly into fighting.
Resources
- “Mooseworld: Biologist.” Mooseworld: About moose. About nature. About life.. N.p., n.d. Web. 1 Nov. 2012. http://www.mooseworld.com/biologist.htm
- “Brake for Moose: It Could Save Your Life!.” NH Fish and Game Department – Connecting you to life outdoors. N.p., n.d. Web. 1 Nov. 2012. http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Wildlife/brake_for_moose.htm
- “Moose Rutting.” National Park Service. US Department of Interior, n.d. Web. 1 Nov. 2012. http://www.nps.gov/dena/naturescience/upload/MooseRut2010-2.pdf
