An average moose can run at a speed range of 30 mph to 35 mph. Moose are known for their strong long legs contributing to high running speeds. Their heavy weight slows them down while running, but they can run long distances at medium to high speeds.
Did you know that moose are excellent swimmers? They can move through the water for many miles effortlessly. This article covers how fast moose can run and much more!
Can a Moose Run? How Fast Can a Moose Run?
Yes, moose can run. These animals are known for their fast running speeds which help them escape predators and catch prey.
Research suggests that the fastest speed for an average moose is about 35 miles per hour (56.3 km per hour).
Comparing it with other animals, it is quite fast. However, for an animal as big as a moose, it is quite a high speed. ~ Amy B. Rogers
Alaska moose attain this speed when running short distances of about 300 yards. After this, they require a short period of rest before they can run again.
Other subspecies of moose, for instance, Shiras moose, are slower runners. They can only reach a maximum speed of 30 miles per hour.
How Fast Can a Moose Run in 6 Feet of Snow?
Moose avoid physical activity during the Winter season, including running. Their main aim is to conserve as much energy as possible to survive the cold winter months.
They can reach a speed of 35 mph in the snow but only for short distances. ~ Source
They mainly feed on shrubs and leaves, but during the winter season, food is scarce because of the snow. So, they strip tree bark in search of food.
So, even if they are seen running in the snow, they will not reach their maximum speed to limit energy wastage.
Why Do Moose Run So Fast?
Moose are very fast creatures, thanks to their sturdy and long legs, which enable them to run at fast speeds.
Evidence suggests that moose’s sturdy legs can kick with extreme momentum, enough to hurt predators. ~ Amy B. Rogers
Can a Baby Moose Run? How Fast Can a Baby Moose Run?
Yes, baby moose (also called moose calves) can walk and swim just a few hours after birth. Surprisingly, newborn moose start walking a couple of hours after birth!
Did you know? Moose calves are exceptional swimmers and can swim at speeds of up to 10 miles per hour! They feed on pond weed which is the main source of sodium for these little animals. ~ PBS.org
Baby moose can run even faster than the average adult human when they are just three days old.
Baby moose have short hind legs and long front legs. This arrangement allows them to gain speed quickly, helping them outrun their predators in no time! ~ A-Z Animals
How Fast Do Full-Grown Moose Run?
A full-grown moose weighs about 1400 pounds and is about 6 feet tall. ~ DEC.NY.gov
Despite its humungous size, it can run at a maximum speed of 35 miles per hour (60 km per hour).
Did you know? Apart from running, full-grown moose can also jump eight to ten feet high. ~ Ranger Planet
How fast can old moose run?
The lifespan of a moose is nearly 20 years in the wild. An average moose can run at a speed of 22 miles per hour which means it can sustain a speed of 35 km.
Can A Human Outrun a Moose?
Moose are dangerously fast creatures and are known as the tallest mammals in North America. They have lean muscles with long legs, allowing them to run fast.
Their heavy body weight may slow them down while running, but this does not mean a human can outrun these massive animals. ~ Source
However, if under a moose attack, humans can use their poor eyesight to their advantage.
Are Moose Dangerous?
Normally, moose don’t bother humans and aren’t affected by their presence. Moose are not aggressive creatures.
But if they feel threatened by a human, they will either leave the area or act aggressively.
For instance, a female protecting her young might charge at you if she feels threatened in your presence. ~ Alberta.ca
Here are some warning signs a moose may attack you:
- Ears laid back
- Neck and hips raised
- Smack their lips
- Urination
What Happens if You Run into a Moose?
If a moose is showing signs of aggression and it runs into you, chances are, it will knock you down and continue attacking you.
The moose might continue to run or it may start kicking and stopping on all four of its feet.
Note: If a moose is charging at you, hide behind something solid immediately. If you’re under a moose attack, don’t try to move until the moose backs away. Curl up in a ball to protect yourself from a serious head injury. ~ Alaska Department of Fish and Game
Is a Cheetah Faster Than a Moose? Can Moose Outrun Other Animals?
We already know that moose are pretty fast animals. But can they outrun a cheetah and other animals known for their speed? Let’s find out:
| Animal Name | Comparison of Speed |
| Cheetah | A cheetah can attain a maximum speed of 70 miles per hour while a moose can reach a speed of 30 to 35 miles per hour. So, a cheetah is twice as fast as a moose. |
| Pronghorn Antelope | A pronghorn antelope can run at speeds of 60 miles per hour which is exactly twice as fast as a moose. |
| Lions | This African cat is well known for its fast running speed of 50 miles per hour which is 20 miles per hour faster than the speed of a moose. |
| Springbok | This mammal is well known for preying on large African cats. It can run at a speed of 55 miles per hour which is 25 miles per hour faster than a moose. |
How Fast Does a Moose Walk?
Research suggests that moose can trot at a speed of 20 mph for long distances.
Did you know? Moose prefer solidarity and only get together when the mating season begins. These animals prefer to hunt for food alone. ~ Source
FAQs
Where do Moose live?
The primary habitats of moose include Alaska, Canada, Asia, Europe, and the USA.
Can moose run on water?
No, moose cannot run on water, but they are exceptional swimmers and can swim at a maximum speed of 10 miles per hour.
Will a Moose chase you if you run?
If a moose detects a threat, it will chase you, especially if a female perceives you as a threat to her young.
Conclusion
Moose are large land animals known for their massive size. Despite their heavy weight, they can run at great speeds which makes them quite fascinating creatures to study. The antlers are another attractive feature of these animals. I hope this article effectively explained how fast a moose could run and more.
