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Michigan Moose Population Plummets: Aerial Surveys Reveal Alarming Decline

10/13/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Recent aerial surveys show Michigan's core moose area declined from 426 to 300 since 2023.
The steepest drop occurred in a previously low-density area, falling from 143 to 43.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is studying the decline by collaring and tracking moose movements.
The study began in February and will run through 2028, with a goal to collar 60 moose in the western Upper Peninsula.

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Story summary

Recent aerial surveys show Michigan's core moose area declined from 426 to 300 since 2023.
The steepest drop occurred in a previously low-density area, falling from 143 to 43.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is studying the decline by collaring and tracking moose movements.
The study began in February and will run through 2028, with a goal to collar 60 moose in the western Upper Peninsula.