The moose is the largest member of the deer family. Moose stand about 6 feet at the shoulder, and bulls may weigh as much as 1400 lbs, although the average is about 1000 lbs.
Cows are about the same height, but lighter in weight.
The body is bulky with a short, stubby tail and a disproportionately large head. This is a flap of skin covered with hair that grows as long as 25 cm on males. The bell is used in communication, both visual and olfactory. The size and shape of the bell on bulls may be a secondary indicator of sex, relative to age and rank, especially during the anterless period. Moose have long legs which are suited for ploughing through deep snow, walking over bushes and logs, and wading through muskeg.