In early 2017, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and the Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at the University of Wyoming initiated a first of its kind moose research project in the Bighorn Mountains. The three year project has two primary objectives; evaluate moose population dynamics and seasonal habitat use.

Approximately 60 cow moose will be captured and fitted with GPS collars which will collect moose locations every two hours. Several moose were captured in February 2017 using a helicopter and a net gun. As opportunities arise, additional moose will be captured from the ground using a tranquilizer dart gun.

Information collected when the moose are collared and the data gathered over the three-year life span of the collars will allow researchers to determine pregnancy and body condition at initial capture and adult survival and calf recruitment over the study period. In addition, the movement data collected will be used to identify seasonal ranges including calving areas and, if possible, migration routes.

The herd-health information, seasonal habitat selection and migration patterns of Bighorn moose will be compared with previous moose studies conducted across the state (i.e., Jackson, Sublette and Snowy Range herds). This information will help biologists better manage the moose population and their habitats.

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News courtesy of Bud Stewart, Sheridan Region Public Information Specialist. Read more Sheridan Region news online.