10/29/2026
with Alta Environmental Center
Fall is a big transitional period for the moose of Alta. September and October mark peak rutting—breeding—season, when hormone-driven bulls become highly territorial, unpredictable and far more aggressive than during the peaceful summer months. 🫎
When November rolls around, moose enter the post-rut, shifting their focus to recovering and preparing for the long winter ahead. After months of chasing the ladies and fending off rivals, bulls begin bulking back up on woody vegetation. As tensions ease, they become more tolerant of one another and begin making their way down Little Cottonwood Canyon, where food is more accessible throughout winter. By late November and into December, bulls begin shedding their antlers to conserve energy. With the chaos of breeding season behind them, life slows down as Alta’s moose settle into their winter routines. 🍂
