The moose (Alces alces) is the largest member of the deer family and is one of North America’s largest land mammals. Moose were an important source of food, clothing, tools and recreation for early explorers of this continent and the species continues to provide the basic staples for a number of Alaskan residents who live from the land. Mature bull moose produce the world’s largest antlers. They are highly prized as trophies and may provide up to 318 kilograms (700 pounds) of delicious meat for the hunter. The life cycle of a moose begins with the breeding season or the rut, which extends from early September to late November with the peak period occurring in late September and early October. Moose are essentially solitary and have one or several seasonally distinct home ranges to which they are strongly attached. These ranges are consistently small throughout North America, and no matter how far moose habitually move, home range during a given season seldom exceeds 5-10 square kilometers. The primary limiting factor of moose populations throughout their range in North America is habitat.