Moose

To capture these giants on camera, you must consider their incredible height. Most backyard enthusiasts mount their cameras at waist height, which results in a 'moose leg' gallery but no headshots. Place your camera at least 5 to 6 feet high on a very sturdy, thick-trunked tree. Angle the camera slightly downward to ensure you catch the full profile. Because moose are heavy and can cause significant vibration, ensure the mount is rock-solid to avoid blurred images triggered by their heavy footsteps nearby.

Location is everything. Look for 'moose runs'—wide, muddy trails that lead toward water sources or through dense willow thickets. If you have a wetland or a slow-moving stream on your property, aim the camera at the transition zone where the forest meets the water. In the summer, moose frequent these areas to cool off and escape biting flies. In the winter, focus on south-facing slopes where they gather to soak up the sun and browse on hardwood twigs.

Setting your camera to video mode is highly recommended for moose. Because they move with a slow, deliberate gait, a single photo often misses the best action. A 20-30 second video clip will capture the fascinating way they use their prehensile lips to strip bark or the impressive sway of a bull's antlers. Use a high-endurance SD card and set the trigger interval to be relatively short (15 seconds), as moose often travel in pairs (cow and calf) and you don't want to miss the second animal following behind.

While mineral blocks or salt licks are commonly used to attract moose in legal jurisdictions, the best 'lure' is a natural one: a healthy stand of willows or a quiet pond. Avoid using strong scents near the camera, as moose have an incredibly sensitive sense of smell and may become wary of the area if it smells 'human.' Always check your camera during the middle of the day when they are most likely bedding down in deep cover to minimize the chance of a face-to-face encounter.