Motion-activated cameras mounted deep in the Fiordland bush have captured the first image of an animal resembling a moose, since 1995. But, like all good mysteries, there is still plenty of doubt.
Moose researcher Ken Tustin, who maintains a series of sponsored cameras in the Fiordland National Park, was wading through the 5000-plus photographs – mostly of red deer – taken since October, when one picture made him sit up in a hurry.
Has Ken Tustin captured a photo of a juvenile moose in Fiordland? You be the judge.
Since the image (2010) doesn’t give many clues – only a close shot of muzzle and neck – Mr Tustin suggests you consider the following when reaching your conclusion: muzzle shape, muzzle size, lens distortion, IR flare distortion, nostril configuration and placement, eye, behaviour (ie startled, deer are pretty cool), neck shape and length, lack of dewlap (not present in juvenile moose). To assist, we’ve published a picture of a young moose, in a similar stance, taken by Canadian wildlife photographer Mike Lascut. When you’ve reached your decision, cast your vote on the poll on the right hand side of this page. There’s also a chance for you to offer your opinion on the 1995 shot. We’ll reveal the results in next week’s Advocate.
Click here to read the newspaper article in full.
Click here to see more images captured by motion cameras.
The two beautiful colour photos of moose are by Mike Lascut. See more of his work at www.mikephoto.com
CLICK THE IMAGES TO ENLARGE THEM
Comments
The flash on the nose loses definition. Compare the way the head is held and the neck. Also the snout on the moose has distinctive wide nostrils and upper lip.
A decent photo of a red deer (published here) would help decision making.
If "Maybe" wouldn't be an option, I'd probably have chosen Red Deer. Looking forward for more opinions