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The Michigan Department of Natural Resources conducts a biennial aerial moose survey to monitor population size and trends in the western Upper Peninsula. The survey has been conducted every other year since 1997 and takes place in January, when moose are more visible against the snow-covered landscape.
Survey flights follow a systematic route at low altitude across Marquette, Baraga and Iron counties, where the state’s reintroduced moose population is concentrated. Trained observers count the number of moose spotted from the air, recording information by location.
Because not every moose can be seen, even under ideal conditions, the raw counts are adjusted using a statistical model. This model was developed through trials with radio-collared moose to estimate how many animals are likely to be missed during aerial surveys, providing a more accurate population estimate.
The goal of the moose survey is to help wildlife biologists track population trends over time and evaluate the effectiveness of conservation and management efforts. Survey results also help identify early warning signs if the population begins to decline or experiences unexpected changes.
This data plays a key role in:
In the January 2023 survey, biologists estimated a population of approximately 426 moose in the western Upper Peninsula. This figure is statistically similar to the 2019 estimate of 509 moose, indicating that the population is generally stable, although slight fluctuations are expected over time due to natural variation in births and deaths.
Because the eastern Upper Peninsula is not systematically surveyed, moose in that region—such as those in Alger, Luce, Schoolcraft and Chippewa counties—are not included in this estimate, though sightings confirm they are present in lower numbers.
While moose numbers remain relatively small compared to other big game species in Michigan, the population is self-sustaining and holds ecological, cultural and recreational significance for the state. Continued monitoring through aerial surveys and field research will help ensure that conservation strategies remain science-based and adaptive to changing conditions.
