When: Year-round, but dawn and dusk are the best times
Where: Forests, nature reserves, and quiet roadsides across Sweden
What: Discover the thrill of spotting moose in their natural habitat
One of the ultimate Sweden experiences is spotting a moose, the largest member of the deer family. These majestic animals are not just icons of the Nordic wilderness, but also fascinating creatures to observe in the wild. Whether you’re hiking in the woods or taking a quiet drive through a forest road, you may just stumble upon one of these gentle giants.
A NATIONAL SYMBOL OF SWEDEN
Moose are practically a symbol of Sweden’s wild nature, and it’s no surprise that they’re a favorite among both locals and tourists. Standing tall at over two meters at the shoulder, with antlers that can span up to two meters wide, they are truly impressive animals. You’ll often hear Swedes refer to them as "Skogens Konung" or "King of the Forest," and it’s easy to see why once you encounter one.
AMAZING SURVIVAL SKILLS
Moose are built to survive the harsh conditions of Sweden’s wilderness. They are excellent swimmers, capable of swimming up to 10 kilometers at a time! This helps them cool off during the warmer months and escape predators, but it’s also a way for them to find food. Moose love to feed on aquatic plants like water lilies and, interestingly, seaweed. Their strong legs and hooves help them navigate through snow, boggy areas, and even dense undergrowth with ease.
In terms of speed, these giants can run up to 60 km/h in short bursts, which is incredible considering their size. However, they usually move at a much slower, more relaxed pace unless threatened or startled.
WHAT DO MOOSE EAT?
Moose are herbivores, and their diet changes with the seasons. In the warmer months, they enjoy leaves, twigs, and shoots from trees like birch, willow, and aspen. They also graze on grasses, shrubs, and aquatic plants. In winter, when vegetation is scarce, moose rely on bark and pine needles. Their ability to digest tough, fibrous plants helps them survive even when food is limited. An adult moose can eat up to 30 kg of food per day, which they need to fuel their large bodies and maintain energy in cold weather.
WHERE TO FIND MOOSE
Moose roam all over Sweden, and Västerås is no exception. I always spot them while driving on the highway, which makes it almost impossible to photograph them. For a proper photo I have spent countless hours searching for them, hiking through dense forests and scanning the landscape, always hoping for that perfect wildlife encounter, I even wrote a blog post about it. And then, finally, it happened. In the forest, I stumbled upon a small group of moose resting among the trees. They blended in so well with their surroundings that I almost missed them. Keeping a respectful distance, I quietly set up my camera, heart racing with excitement. It was a moment I had been dreaming of, the "King of the Forest" in its natural domain!
While moose prefer the shelter of thick forests, they can also be spotted near wetlands, where they feed on aquatic plants, or occasionally in open fields and grasslands. If you're hoping to see one, patience is key. And sometimes, when you least expect it, the forest rewards you.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO SEE MOOSE?
Moose are most active during the early morning and late evening, especially in the spring and summer. These times offer the best opportunities for sightings. In the winter, you might still spot them, but they tend to move around less as they conserve energy. Snow, though, can make them easier to see against the white landscape. So keep your camera ready if you’re out exploring!
STAY ALERT WHILE DRIVING
Many moose sightings happen from cars. If you’re driving through a forested area, especially early or late in the day, keep your eyes peeled. Look out for "varning för älg" (moose warning) signs on the road. These signs are everywhere for a reason—moose can suddenly appear on the road, and given their size, collisions can be dangerous. So when you see one of those yellow warning signs, slow down and stay extra vigilant. Moose don’t move quickly, and they often blend into the landscape, especially at dusk.
GO ON A MOOSE SAFARI
If you're eager to see moose but would prefer a guided experience, you can book a Moose Safari with Wild Sweden. This safari takes you into prime moose territory with expert guides who know exactly where to find these magnificent creatures. It’s a great way to learn more about them and the Swedish wilderness. Plus, the safari often includes other wildlife sightings as well. For more details or to book your spot, check out the link below.
THE THRILL OF A MOOSE ENCOUNTER
There’s nothing quite like seeing a moose in the wild for the first time. The sheer size of the animal, paired with its calm presence, makes for an unforgettable moment. Whether it’s a solitary bull standing tall among the trees or a small family grazing near the water, it’s a reminder of just how wild and wonderful Sweden’s nature is.
HELPFUL LINKS:
Wild Sweden's Moose Safari:
My blog post about my struggle as a photographer, trying to capture a moose: forestjunkie.com/post/a-photographer-s-struggle
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