Moose Calling Success...  September 30, 2004  A  heavy mist was lifting from the valleys as I headed north.  There was a bitter chill in the air and a light frost coated  the fields.  When I arrived at my favorite moose spot I was surprised to find it empty...

 

In spite of the cold, I sat with the car turned off, the windows open, and listened.  Three ravens flew  overhead so low I could hear the heavy sound of their wings beating the air.  Using the "moose call" I'd bought at Woodman's (in Norway) I made a couple of "grunt" noises and waited.  Nearby I heard the ominous rustlings of what I thought might be a bull responding to my call.  (The tape that came with the call didn't say anything about them answering in a like manner.) I imagined one sneaking up to check things out.

 

The sun coming over the tops of surrounding trees brightly lit the far side of the bog.  The ravens moved nearer, and seemed to be taunting one another, first almost cooing, then making rattling-like noises before screaming loudly back and forth.  It was cold...

 

I sat there shivering, waiting for my "1200 pound moose (who) is now hunting you" (according to the aforementioned tape).  I finally gave up and used the old "coffee can and boot lace" call.  Twice.. and waited.  Did I mention it was bitter cold?

 

Once more...  It was quiet.   The ravens had been circling and then a strange quiet marked their absence.  Cold...

 

Holy Horse Feathers!!  I heard running.   I mean RUNNING!  My heart was pounding.  As I turned to face the sound, I clearly saw parts of two moose running towards me, downhill through the trees. For a moment I pictured a herd of moose!

 

This is where I have to admit I was alone, and yes,  suddenly nervous.  I didn't want to wait to find out if it was a bull or just what his plans were, so I started the car and moved to another vantage point a little farther away.

Within seconds a large cow moose and her calf emerged from the woods and as I grabbed my camera she was looking around for something she expected but didn't see.  This cow was ready to find Mr. Right Moose!

 

I was thrilled.  This was an immediate and direct result of my new found expertise.  All you need is a moose who is "ready"....  It also occurred to me...  what better bait for bull moose pictures than a beautiful cow moose?  

 

She fed for a few moments, lifting her head from time to time, watching the woods across the way... a fair sign there might a bull nearby, perhaps enticed by my call.  I wasn't foolish enough to try again and after a few minutes, with no response to her noisy drinking and puddle peeing, she left...  but not until she stopped and looked one more time over her shoulder.

 

I was still shivering, partially from the cold  but now, even more, from the excitement.

 

I did it !  

I did it !

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