SPOKANE, Wash. — A well-known moose in north Spokane was seen again this year with three calves, a rare sight for the species, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) said.
WDFW said Moose 229 has become familiar in the area over the past few years. In 2024, she was seen with one calf. In 2025, officials reported she had twins. This year, she was photographed with triplets.
Raising three calves takes a lot out of a moose and that strong nutrition can affect body condition, pregnancy, nursing and calf survival, WDFW noted.
WDFW
Officials also said the sighting is a reminder that habitat means more than food. They explained moose need places to feed, cool off and rest with their young.
In north Spokane, officials said backyards, parks and neighborhood green spaces with native trees, shrubs and plants can give moose and other wildlife important cover and forage, even though wildlife managers prefer moose stay farther from people.
The department said public spaces can also be risky for animals like Moose 229. Officials noted she was hit by a motorcycle in the past, but said it does not appear to have slowed her down.
WDFW
North Spokane residents may be excited to see the animals, but WDFW urges people to keep their distance from moose and other wildlife. They also ask drivers to slow down in places wildlife often use and encourage people to plant native vegetation.