Population growth of moose, Alces alces, in Labrador

Abstract

Moose (Alces alces), although non historically resident in Labrador, have increased in numbers and range over the past four decades. Densities of Moose remain comparatively low (0.013 - 0.168 animals/km2), but several indicators reveal an expanding population. Successive surveys of two Moose management areas in south-central Labrador, conducted in 1986 and again in 1994, indicated an average finite rate of increase of 1.10. Similarly, calf:cow ratios are relatively high, ranging from 0.30 to 0.67. Twinning rates were estimated at less than 11% of the total calf crop. During late winter animals appeared to be non-gregarious with mean group size of 1.4. Moose hunting in Labrador commenced in 1977; hunter success, as indicated by annual license returns, increased substantially during the period 1977-1993. Incidental observations have indicated northward range expansion of Moose to the treeline in Labrador.