Maine designated the moose as official state animal in 1979. Moose (Alces alces) are the world's largest member of the deer family. Moose mostly inhabit northern forests of North America, Europe, and Russia (in Europe they are called "elk").
Moose in the mist - photo © Steve Wall (Steve took it) on Flickr - noncommercial use permitted with attribution / share alike
Moose have long legs, a heavy body, small tail, drooping nose, and a "bell" or dewlap under the chin. Color can range from golden brown to almost black (depending on the season and age of the moose).
Photo of young moose courtesy National Park Service
Photo of bull moose © Doug Lloyd (used by permission)
