Minnesota Moose Numbers Remain Low Despite Slower Decline

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - New data show Minnesota's moose population remains low despite a slower population decline, and officials expect the fall to continue.

Annual aerial survey results put northeastern Minnesota's moose population at an estimated 4,020. While that's higher than the 2015 estimate of 3,450, the Department of Natural Resources cautions that the difference isn't statistically significant. The population could be higher or lower.

DNR's moose project leader Glenn DelGiudice says it's encouraging that the decline since 2012 hasn't been as steep as it was. But he says longer-term projections are that Minnesota's moose population will continue to drop.

Northeastern Minnesota's moose population is down 55 percent from an estimated 8,840 in 2006. Researchers are beginning to unravel the reasons, and say they include a complex interplay of health issues and predators.