Even though there have been moose here in the U.P. for a number of years now, it’s still exciting to get to see one in person. Marcy Bessolo Hermanson spotted this moose near Michigamme last week and she said they watched it for quite some time, as I’m sure many other motorists stopped to partake of the excitement. It seems these big guys always manage to attract a crowd! I didn’t witness it myself, but a couple weeks ago there was one, maybe two spotted in Bootjack, Mud Lake and Big Traverse at different times. Possibly the same moose moving around a bit. I was hoping I’d get to see one when I was out for a bike ride, but no luck.

Jason Asselin was on his way UP North last week, to spend some quality time along Lake Superior when he saw the Bull Moose in today’s video. He was on US41, five miles west of Three Lakes when he was lucky enough to encounter this moose on the loose.

Lots of mouses lately. Must be a nest.

It's hard to see a moose.

The estimated population in Michigan (not including Isle Royale) was 500 in 2019. They are concentrated mostly in the 3 counties of Iron, Baraga and Marquette. The place I've had the best luck seeing them from my car is to the east of US-141, south of Covington.

In contrast, Isle Royale has closer to 2000 (up from 1500 in 2018). Still, many hikers fail to see a single moose during their multi-day adventure. The population boom has been attributed to the collapse of the Island wolf population to just 2 animals. Thirteen wolves were introduced recently from Michigan and Ontario. Hopefully the moose population will reduce as the high numbers destroy large areas of browse vegetation. To round out the picture, Michigan wolf population has been holding steady between 600 and 700.

When Vic and I were heading back to Marquette last Saturday, we saw a half a dozen vehicles pulled over right in that area! By the time I realized what they were most likely looking at, I was way past and I didn't bother to turn around thinking it, or they, would be long gone. We thought possibly a moose or bear & cubs. Oh well.... Great pic's & video! Are short weekend trip was well worth it!! Especially our visit to see Mary & Jim!!

I love seeing both moose and bear. I would
probably have turned around.

We wanted to go see Mary and Jim but with the
covid scare, we didn't really go anywhere
except our lakeshore drive. Beautiful, as
always.