Two 7-month-old Alaska Moose Calves to Arrive at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Two seven-month-old Alaska moose calves are scheduled to arrive at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs later this week, KOAA reported.

The calves were rescued earlier this year by The Alaska Zoo. They are described by zoo officials as “leggy, outgoing, and fluffy-eared.”

The background of the two animals remains partially unclear. One female calf was rescued by wildlife authorities after her mother was either killed in a vehicle collision or involved in a human-wildlife conflict. The male calf was separated from his mother and a twin and failed to reunite with them.

At the time of their separation, both calves were likely only days or weeks old. The female calf required around-the-clock care for several weeks following her rescue.

Staff at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo are currently working to babyproof the moose yard to prepare for the newcomers. Officials expect the calves to be visible to zoo guests by this weekend.

Communications and Marketing Director Rachel Wright noted that the female calf has a confident and outgoing personality. She described a recent meeting with the animals at The Alaska Zoo.

“Because they’re still small and it’s safe to share space with them under certain limitations, Heidi and I met them up-close at The Alaska Zoo. When they came out from their barn, they both immediately trotted up to us to see if we had snacks for them. She is much bigger than the male, and her investigation came with a very enthusiastic boop.” Marketing Director Rachel Wright

The male calf has been described by Communications Manager Heidi Lopez as having an “adorable goofy face” and a “sweetest demeanor.” Lopez reported that the calf nudged and licked her during filming attempts.

The team at The Alaska Zoo has worked to ensure the calves view humans as safe. This training is intended to help them serve as ambassadors for moose in the wild. While the calves have not yet been named, zoo staff expressed confidence that the Colorado Springs community will connect with them quickly.