Bears as Predators
We see the grizzly spot the moose and her two calves on the water’s edge. The Mom moose is standing in the water but the two calves are curled up on the shore. As the grizzly slowly approaches, we can see the unmistakable muscular hump between the shoulder blades. We can also note the ‘grizzled’ appearance of the fur. One of the calves gets up in time and bolts into the water to be with the mother. The other is not so fast and pays the ultimate price. The Mom looks on helplessly. Moose are the largest of all the deer family and an adult can be six feet to the shoulder. They feed on plants and that includes aquatic plants which is why this female may be close to the water. They live a solitary life apart from during the breeding season and are very peaceful apart from when challenged by a predator. Their predators include brown bears and they would usually be expected to put up a fight.
Moose Fighting Off Bears
Moose are preyed upon by bears, wolves and humans. They provide a valuable source of meat for both black and brown bears. An adult moose would provide multiple meals for a bear but is more of a challenge to catch. If possible, bears target the calves. When approached by a bear, a moose will usually run away and can reach speeds of 35 mph. They also stamp the ground and will use their antlers, if they have any, as well as leaping and jumping around. This uses up a lot of energy for the predators but we need to remember that calves do not have the stamina of the adults. Moose also have a hefty kick that can leave even a large bear dazed. A further defense tactic is to head for water which may have happened here. Sadly for the moose, it did not work on this occasion.
Next up:
Watch the Scariest Animal Video This Year as a Rock Climber Fights a Bear Watch a Bear Fight Spill Into a New Jersey Street Like a Bar Brawl Watch an Alaskan Grizzly Bear Run & Swim 1+ Miles to Catch a Wild Caribou in Incredible Video
