Page:Babyhood of Wild Beasts.djvu/257

Rh upper lip, which is well fitted for browsing, long hairy muzzle, except for a triangular bare spot in front of the nostrils, a dewlap or "bell" on the neck, a mere stub of a tail and an enormous head and antlers. In colour he is blackish brown, shading lighter below—but his coat in midsummer is of a somewhat different hue. It is tawny, shading to yellowish on the underparts. His high shoulders and low hind quarters give him an awkward, shuffling gait. His hearing is remarkable. His diet consists of willow twigs and leaves, small branches of the striped maple, water-lilies and aquatic plants. He is very fond of the aspen, birch, maple and hemlock foliage.

In winter, moose herd together, and sometimes several herds unite and tread the snow into what the hunters call "Moose yards."

They are steady and affectionate, and have more sense than other deer. They are easily handled and can be driven in harness, in captivity.

Old Moose cuts a comical figure when running. He straddles his hind legs to avoid tripping over his front feet.

They keep out of deep snow as much as