Should Moose Be an Endangered Species?

By Patriot Outdoor News

Scientists believe declining moose numbers are primarily caused by disease, parasites, and predation by bears and wolves.

The moose should be added to the endangered species list, according to a petition from two wildlife protection groups.

The Center for Biological Diversity and Honor the Earth believe the moose is increasingly threatened under climate change, like other endangered species such as the polar bear.

On Thursday, the two groups asked the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to review the animal’s status, saying that rising temperatures have led moose populations to plummet in Minnesota, Michigan, and Wisconsin.

While the number of moose has declined in certain areas, such as northeastern Minnesota, state researchers say their numbers are well above the endangered or threatened level in the Midwest.

Moose are currently listed as a “species of special concern” in Michigan and Minnesota, although the title does not come with any regulations regarding the animals or their environment.

If granted protection under the Endangered Species Act, the moose would be permanently protected from being hunted. The federal government would also provide legal incentives to preserve moose habitat and allow their populations to recover.

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Source:: Patriot Outdoor News