WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
The moose population in Michigan’s western Upper Peninsula appears to have dropped over the past two years — and a wildlife expert says there’s reason for concern about the species’ long-term future in the state.
The Department of Natural Resources says Monday its latest biennial survey produced an estimate of 323 moose in their primary Michigan range, which includes Baraga, Iron and Marquette counties.
In 2013, the population estimate there was 451.
DNR moose specialist Chad Stewart says because of statistical uncertainty, it’s possible the population has held steady since the 2013 count. But he says it’s likelier that there was a drop-off because of other findings, including a decrease in the number of calves spotted with adult females.
Moose populations have declined in a number of other northern states. (AP)
