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How to Distinguish Between a Cow and a Bull Moose

Moose are the largest members of the deer family, and they range in color from brown to nearly black, often darkening as they get older. Both male and female moose have long forelegs and back legs, and both sexes have a bell -- a flap of skin beneath the throat. Telling a cow moose from a bull moose is not always possible from a distance, but there are some clues that help you determine the sex of these large animals.

Instructions

- 1
  Look for antlers. Only bull moose have antlers. The antlers range from small nubs on the heads of male calves, to enormous, flattened antlers that can weigh over 40 pounds. Cow moose lack antlers completely.
- 2
  Look at the bell. The bells on males are significantly larger than those on females.
- 3
  Estimate the size of the moose. Males are usually significantly larger than females. Males weigh between 900 and 1200 pounds, while females weight between 700 and 1100 pounds.
- 4
  Check the moose's face. Bull moose have black noses, while cow moose have reddish-brown noses.

Animals & Science