The article regarding consideration of putting moose on the endangered species list (June 18, 2016 issue) contained an incorrect statement. It correctly stated that “Moose prefer to browse in young, new growth areas,” but then added “preferring to eat cedar and fir trees.” Cedar and fir (as well as most other conifers) are very low preference foods for moose.
Their preference is leaves and current annual stem growth of broadleaf trees and shrubs: such as aspen, birch, mountain maple, dogwood, etc. Speckled alder is one of the very few broadleaf species that is of low preference for moose.
Conifers can provide good cover, but it is the broadleaf species that provide the preferred foods.
Bill Peterson
Grand Marais
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