Scientists challenge plans for U.P. moose hunt
By Todd A. Heywood | 12.21.10 | 8:57 am
A group of biologists is asking Gov. Jennifer Granholm to veto legislation which would establish a commission to consider establishing a moose hunt in the state’s upper peninsula, according to an Associated Press report.
The plan was passed through both chambers of the legislature earlier this year with little debate. But a group of 14 scientists say the current moose population — estimated to be about 500 — is not able to handle a culling. They say the moose in the U.P. have a low birth rate and high mortality rate making the replenishment of the herd difficult.
Fifty-nine Moose were transplanted into the U.P. from Canada in the mid-80s. But because the U.P. weather conditions are at the very edge of the Moose’s preferable cold climate preferences, combined with an increase in white tail deer populations has made the herd growth very limited. Scientists say the white tail deer increase brings higher exposure for the moose to a brain worm which is fatal to the moose.
Granholm is expected to sign the legislation this week.
Fifty-nine Moose were transplanted into the U.P. from Canada in the mid-80s. But because the U.P. weather conditions are at the very edge of the Moose’s preferable cold climate preferences, combined with an increase in white tail deer populations has made the herd growth very limited. Scientists say the white tail deer increase brings higher exposure for the moose to a brain worm which is fatal to the moose.
Granholm is expected to sign the legislation this week.
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