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   The most recent Minnesota moose population estimate is approximately 4,470 animals, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ 2026 population survey.

   Results suggest that after a steep decline from a population estimate of 8,000 in 2009, Minnesota’s moose population appears to have somewhat leveled, fluctuating around 3,700 animals in recent years.

   Despite recent estimates suggesting relative stability in the population and reproductive success, Minnesota DNR researchers point out that Minnesota moose remain at risk. Climate change, parasites, habitat loss and predator impacts on calf survival all play a part in the long-term survival of the moose population.

   Ongoing research by the DNR, 1854 Treaty Authority and Grand Portage Band of Chippewa aims to better understand reproduction and survival. Funding for the research is provided by the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources.

   Collaborative landscape-level habitat work with state, tribal, federal, county and non-governmental organization partners also continues. Partners are currently completing the planning phase funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation America the Beautiful Challenge, and will be transitioning into the implementation phase where the goals are to address barriers to habitat management and implement habitat work within three core areas of approximately 50,000 acres each in St. Louis, Lake, and Cook counties. Both the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and the 1854 Treaty Authority are full partners on the moose survey and contributed funding and personnel for the 2026 annual survey. The survey is available on the Minnesota DNR’s moose management webpage (mndnr.gov/moose).

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