During the University of Wyoming Biodiversity Institute’s Winter Moose Day weekend on Feb. 8-9, volunteers spotted five moose—four adults and one calf—in the Snowy Range and Pole Mountain areas.

Eighty-one volunteers used snowshoes or skis to cover 21 routes, searching for moose and signs like tracks, scat, and browsing marks on aspen and willows. In 2024, volunteers saw 12 moose, and the record count was 19 in 2022.

Surveyors also recorded weather, snow conditions, and sightings of other animals, including mule deer, red squirrels, and rabbits. Some groups found large ungulate tracks, and one group saw a bull moose still with antlers.

The data collected helps UW biologists study moose population trends, reproductive rates, and habitat use. Professor Dave Christianson highlighted the value of citizen science in tracking these rare animals.

Winter Moose Day is part of a larger effort to involve the public in wildlife research. Learn more at www.wyomingbiodiversity.org.