What is the Difference Between Moose and Caribou?

Moose and caribou are both large deer species that belong to the Cervidae family, but they have distinct differences in various aspects. Here are the key differences between moose and caribou:

1. Size: Moose are larger than caribou. Moose can weigh up to 1,800 pounds and grow to be 6.5 feet tall from hooves to shoulders, while caribou weigh between 180 and 700 pounds and stand up to 4.9 feet tall.
2. Fur: Moose have dark brown fur all over their bodies, while caribou come in various colors, including gray, brown, tan, and white. Caribou have lighter fur than moose and have different colors throughout their fur.
3. Antlers: Caribou have tall, curved antlers, while moose have flat, wide antlers.
4. Habitat: Moose live in northern forests with bodies of water, while caribou live in tundra, mountainous areas, and northern forests. Caribou can also be found in colder temperatures compared to moose.
5. Diet: Moose are herbivores, while caribou are omnivores.
6. Migration Patterns: Caribou are migratory, while moose are non-migratory.
7. Behavior: Moose are generally solitary animals, while caribou travel in large herds.
8. Vocalizations: Moose have a wail sound and grunt, while caribou generally stick to grunting.

In summary, moose and caribou differ in size, fur color and patterns, antlers, habitat preferences, diet, migration patterns, behavior, and vocalizations.

Comparative Table: Moose vs Caribou

Here is a table comparing the differences between moose and caribou:

Some key differences between moose and caribou include their size, antlers, tail, shoulder hump, fur color, and social behavior. Moose are generally larger, have larger antlers, and are solitary, while caribou are smaller, have taller branching antlers, shorter tails, a lighter fur color, and travel in large herds.