Maine designated the moose as official state animal in 1979. Moose (Alces alces) are the world's largest member of the deer family. Moose mostly inhabit northern forests of North America, Europe, and Russia (in Europe they are called "elk"). See video of mother moose with two calves.
Moose have long legs, a heavy body, small tail, drooping nose, and a "bell" or dewlap under the chin. Color can range from golden brown to almost black (depending on the season and age of the moose).
Photo of young moose courtesy National Park Service
