Can Moose Swim?

Moose are the largest members of the deer family and are found throughout Canada, Alaska, and parts of the northern United States. Their massive bodies and huge antlers make them iconic symbols of the wilderness. But with their bulk, can these enormous animals even swim? The answer is yes, moose are actually quite good swimmers! In this article, we’ll look at how well moose can swim and dive underwater.

Can moose dive 20 ft?

Moose can definitely dive down deep underwater. While there aren’t exact measurements, moose have been observed diving to depths of 20 feet or even deeper to feed on aquatic plants. Their bodies are well adapted for swimming and diving.

When diving, a moose will take a huge breath, then sink under the water. They use their powerful front legs to propel themselves down to the bottom. Their long legs and enormous paddle-like hooves give them a lot of power in the water.

Moose have a special valve in their nostrils that closes when they dive underwater. This allows them to stay submerged for up to 30 seconds without getting water in their nose. They also have ears that close to keep water out while diving.

So while we don’t know exactly how deep moose can go, it’s clear that 20 feet is well within their capabilities. Those aquatic plants growing deep underwater don’t stand a chance against a hungry moose!

How fast do moose swim?

You might expect such a bulky animal to be a slow swimmer, but moose can actually move pretty fast in the water. They’ve been clocked swimming at speeds of up to 6 miles per hour. That’s faster than many people can swim!

A moose’s swimming speed depends on how much effort it’s putting in. When relaxed, they swim around at 2-3 mph. But if they are trying to cross a river or escape a predator, moose can really turn on the speed.

Part of what makes them such fast swimmers is their efficient swimming stroke. Moose use a bounding motion, quickly moving their front and back legs in unison. This bounding style helps counterbalance their top-heavy bodies. The powerful thrust from those long legs allows them to cruise smoothly through the water.

So between their strong swimming stroke and immense power, moose are actually quicker in the water than their bulk suggests. It’s best not to challenge them to a race!

How far down can moose swim?

As mentioned earlier, moose can dive down to depths of 20 feet or more. But they likely can’t swim too much deeper than that.

There are a few limitations on how deep moose can dive underwater. First, their lungs would collapse under immense pressure if they tried to go too deep. Most mammals cannot dive below around 100 feet without special adaptations.

Second, moose need to be able to reach the bottom in order to feed on aquatic plants. Much beyond 30 feet, and they wouldn’t be able to efficiently graze during their limited time underwater.

Lastly, their eyesight would be very poor in the dim light of extremely deep water. Moose rely heavily on eyesight both above and below water to watch for predators.

While no exact maximum dive depth is known, it’s unlikely moose would venture much below 30 feet. At that depth, the pressure, lack of light, and inability to reach the bottom would make diving rather pointless. Shallow to medium depths are ideal for their aquatic plant grazing.

How far can a moose swim without stopping?

Moose can swim pretty long distances before needing to take a break. While not marathon swimmers by any means, they can paddle along for an impressive several miles when necessary.

One factor that helps moose swim long distances is their efficient bounding stroke. As discussed earlier, their powerful front and back leg kicks let them cruise through the water without wasting a lot of energy. This allows them to swim steadily for a while before fatiguing.

Moose are also buoyant thanks to their hollow hair. This helps lighten their massive bodies and makes it easier to stay afloat over long swims. They can let their legs dangle beneath them and just paddle along easily for a mile or more.

When swimming across lakes or rivers, moose will typically take short breaks every 1/4 to 1/2 mile. They simply lift their heads up for a quick breather before continuing on. But if they had to, moose could likely swim 3-5 miles or more without fully stopping to rest on shore.

So while moose will start looking for an exit after several miles of nonstop paddling, they have remarkable endurance in the water. If you ever find yourself racing a moose across a lake, be prepared for a long swim!

The Moose’s Body Built for Swimming

Moose have several key adaptations that make them well-suited for swimming. Their bodies are ideal for moving through water efficiently.

Long Legs for Powerful Kicks

Moose have very long, sturdy legs which they use to kick powerfully through the water. Their front legs work like paddles and their back legs provide propulsion. This allows them to swim steadily for long distances.

Dense Fur for Buoyancy

A moose’s fur coat contains outer guard hairs and a dense undercoat that help make them more buoyant in the water. The air trapped in their fur increases their ability to float. Their hollow guard hairs also help repel water.

Flexibility for Efficient Movement

Moose spines are flexible, allowing them to undulate through the water with ease. They can smoothly coordinate movements of their head, body, and legs to paddle through lakes and rivers.

Noses and Ears Designed for Swimming

Moose have large, flexible nostrils that they can close while swimming to keep water out. Their ears are also made to fold back flat against their head when underwater.

Why Moose Swim

Moose don’t just swim for fun. They have several important reasons for going in the water. Understanding moose behavior helps explain why they swim.

To Forage for Aquatic Plants

Moose are herbivores and will swim out to aquatic plants they like to eat. Many wetlands have lush vegetation full of salts and nutrients that moose love.

To Escape Predators

If threatened by predators like wolves or bears, moose may take to the water. Despite their size, moose can outswim any predators, reaching speeds up to 6 mph.

To Cross Water Bodies

Moose routinely swim across rivers, lakes, and ponds when traveling to reach new habitats and food sources. They think nothing of journeying a mile or more across open water.

To Regulate Body Temperature

On hot summer days, moose will take a dip to cool off. The water helps lower their core temperature when they overheat.

Moose Swimming Skills and Behaviors

Let’s look at some of the swimming capabilities and behaviors of moose.

• Moose calves can swim just hours after being born. Mother moose may even lead newborns into water.
• Moose swim at speeds up to 6 miles per hour, paddling with all four legs. They can swim steadily for several hours and over 10 miles before tiring.
• Their nostrils close underwater so they can stay submerged for over a minute when resting or feeding on plants.
• Moose may dunk their heads underwater while swimming to grab mouthfuls of aquatic plants.
• If necessary, moose can even swim under obstacles like fences or downed trees. Their flexible bodies allow them to dive under and surface on the other side.
• Moose can survive in frigid northern waters thanks to their thick coat and ample fat stores for insulation.
• If water currents are too strong, moose may choose to wait out high waters rather than fighting to swim across.
• Moose generally swim alone. During mating season, male moose follow female moose even across large lakes.

Conclusion

For being such massive, top-heavy animals, moose are impressively well adapted for swimming and diving. They can plunge down to 20 feet or more in search of tasty aquatic plants. Their powerful legs allow them to cruise at speeds over 6 mph, and they can paddle steadily for miles before needing a rest.

So if you’re canoeing through moose country, don’t be surprised if one of these majestic giants pops up right next to you! Moose feel just as comfortable in the water as they do on land. Their swimming and diving abilities are key to their survival in their watery habitats.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moose Swimming

How long can a moose stay underwater?

Moose can generally stay underwater for around 30 seconds before needing to surface for air. Their nostrils close to keep water out, allowing them to dive for plants without inhaling water. 30 seconds is enough time for them to dive down, grab a snack, and get back up top.

Do moose drown?

It’s very rare for a healthy adult moose to accidentally drown. Their buoyant, powerful bodies are well-adapted for swimming long distances and diving deep. However, swimming can be more difficult for moose calves and elderly or sick moose. There are occasional cases of these weaker moose drowning if they become exhausted swimming across a lake.

Why do moose swim underwater?

Moose most often dive underwater to reach tasty aquatic plants. Many of their preferred foods, like pondweed and water lilies, grow well below the surface. Diving allows moose to grab these nutritious, underwater snacks. It takes less effort for them to dive down than try to reach plants from the surface.

Do moose swim in the ocean?

While moose can tolerate salt water for short periods, they generally live in freshwater habitats. Occasionally moose will wander into coastal bays or estuaries at low tide. But they do not purposefully venture out into the open ocean. Moose prefer shallow freshwater areas where aquatic plants are abundant.

How long can a moose hold its breath?

We have a dedicated article on How long can a moose hold its breath? Be sure to check it out!

Can moose outswim predators?

Moose are fast swimmers and can briefly sprint at up to 6 mph. This allows them to outpace some potential aquatic predators like coyotes. However, moose would struggle to outswim wolves over longer distances. Their best bet is to use water as an escape by quickly swimming out of reach of hunters on shore.