When it comes to large animals, the Clydesdale horse and the moose are two of the biggest. But which one is actually larger? There are a few key factors to consider when comparing the size of these two impressive animals. In this article, we’ll look at the average height, weight, lifespan and origins of Clydesdales and moose. We’ll also examine interesting facts about each animal and visualize the size difference in photos and charts. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how these gentle giants stack up.
Quick Facts
Clydesdale Horse
- Average height: 16-18 hands (64-72 inches, 163-183 cm)
- Average weight: 1800-2200 lbs (816-998 kg)
- Lifespan: 25-30 years
- Origin: Scotland (Clydesdale Valley)
Moose
- Average height: 5.6-7.5 feet (1.7-2.3 m) at shoulder
- Average weight:
- Males: 1000-1400 lbs (453-635 kg)
- Females: 800-1200 lbs (363-544 kg)
- Lifespan: 15-25 years
- Origin: North America, Europe, Asia
Average Height Comparison
When looking at average height, moose tend to be taller than Clydesdales.
The average height of a Clydesdale horse ranges from 16 to 18 hands. A “hand” is a unit of measurement equal to 4 inches. So 16 hands is equivalent to 64 inches or 163 cm, while 18 hands is equal to 72 inches or 183 cm.
For moose, the average shoulder height is 5.6 to 7.5 feet, or 1.7 to 2.3 meters. This puts the typical moose height range from 67 to 90 inches, or 170 to 229 cm.
In summary, Clydesdales are in the range of 64 to 72 inches tall (163 to 183 cm), while moose are commonly 67 to 90 inches in height (170 to 229 cm). So on average, moose are indeed taller than Clydesdale horses.
Height Ranges
| Animal | Height Range (Imperial) | Height Range (Metric) |
|---|---|---|
| Clydesdale | 64-72 inches | 163-183 cm |
| Moose | 67-90 inches | 170-229 cm |
This table summarizes the average height ranges of Clydesdales and moose in both imperial and metric units. It illustrates how moose tend to be taller overall.
Average Weight Comparison
When comparing the average weights of Clydesdales and moose, there is some overlap but moose still tend to be heavier on average.
For Clydesdales, the typical weight range is between 1,800 and 2,200 lbs or 816 to 998 kg.
Male moose weigh 1,000 to 1,400 lbs on average (453 to 635 kg). Female moose are smaller, weighing 800 to 1,200 lbs typically (363 to 544 kg).
So while large male Clydesdales can weigh up to 2,200 lbs, male moose commonly exceed that. The moose’s greater height also contributes to its larger overall body mass.
Weight Ranges
| Animal | Weight Range (Imperial) | Weight Range (Metric) |
|---|---|---|
| Clydesdale | 1800-2200 lbs | 816-998 kg |
| Bull Moose | 1000-1400 lbs | 453-635 kg |
| Cow Moose | 800-1200 lbs | 363-544 kg |
This table shows the overlapping but higher weight ranges of moose compared to Clydesdale horses. The greater averages highlight the moose’s larger overall mass.
Lifespan Comparison
When it comes to average lifespan, Clydesdales tend to live longer than moose.
The typical lifespan of a Clydesdale horse is 25 to 30 years.
In contrast, moose live an average of 15 to 25 years in the wild.
So while there is some overlap, Clydesdales generally reach older ages than moose. Proper care and vet supervision help extend a Clydesdale’s lifespan up to 30 years, while moose face more natural threats like predators, disease and winter starvation.
Average Lifespans
| Animal | Average Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Clydesdale | 25-30 years |
| Moose | 15-25 years |
This table demonstrates the greater lifespan of Clydesdales compared to moose. With proper care, Clydesdales frequently live over 25 years, while moose average 15-25 years in the wild.
Origins
Clydesdales and moose also differ in their origins and native habitats.
Clydesdale horses originated from the Clydesdale valley in Scotland. They were bred in the 18th century to haul heavy loads and serve as draft horses in agriculture and transportation.
In contrast, moose are native to North America, Europe and Asia. They inhabit boreal and mixed deciduous forests in northern latitudes. Moose are well adapted to surviving cold climates and deep snow.
So while Clydesdales trace their lineage to Scotland, moose have roamed northern regions around the globe for thousands of years.
Native Regions
| Animal | Origin |
|---|---|
| Clydesdale | Scotland |
| Moose | North America, Europe, Asia |
This table summarizes the different native origins of Clydesdale horses and moose. It shows the regional heritage of each animal.
Interesting Facts
Beyond the size comparisons, here are some fascinating facts about Clydesdales and moose:
Clydesdale Horse Facts
- Has feathering on lower legs to protect skin from injuries when plowing fields
- Was almost extinct after WWI but rebounded in popularity
- Famous for pulling wagons for Budweiser beer delivery
- Bright white blaze and socks are highly prized markings
- Shire horses are the only draft breed larger than Clydesdales
Moose Facts
- Excellent swimmers using underwater caminng to cross lakes and rivers
- Long legs help wade through 5 feet of snow in winter
- Huge antlers can span 6 feet from tip to tip
- Upper lip is very mobile for grasping twigs when browsing
- Males shed antlers every winter and grow back larger each spring
These fun facts provide more insight into the traits and abilities of these gentle giants. While very different animals, Clydesdales and moose are both impressively adapted to their environments.
Visual Size Comparison
While the numbers show moose being larger than Clydesdales on average, seeing these animals side-by-side really illustrates the size difference.
This photo provides an excellent visual for comparing the height and bulk of a Clydesdale horse versus a bull moose. The moose’s greater shoulder height and overall mass are very apparent.
Conclusion
In the match-up between Clydesdale horses and moose, moose take the title as the larger animal. Though Clydesdales can weigh up to 2,200 pounds, moose commonly exceed this weight. Moose also stand several inches taller than Clydesdales on average. And while Clydesdales live longer with human care, moose have adapted to survive harsh northern climates.
So if you’re looking for the true gentle giant, the moose’s imposing height, massive bulk and wild nature make it the bigger beast. But Clydesdales still stand out for their calm strength, beauty and place in history. Both animals are awe-inspiring examples of power, resilience and grace in the animal kingdom.