New Zealand wildlife

Because of its isolation, NZ never really developed its own land-based mammalian life. The dominant (as in largest) animal lifeform, pre-man, was the moa (stood around 7 feet high) Mammals such as rabbits, hares, ferrets, possoms (from Australia) wallabies, tar, chamois, goats, deer and elk were all imported by enterprising people who thought they either "missed" the cuteness or would make good hunting here. Someone even imported mooses with the idea of crossing them with red deer and for release for hunting. However, NZ really isn't moose country, and thus were easy to trap/hunt. After many years of no sign of moose in the wild, many people believe that the last of the wild moose in NZ have died out. There are those who disagree, and point out that down Fjordland/Southland there are many areas where it is difficult for man to get to, and that there are signs (grazing marks, etc.) that only moose could make. Today, however, I can put all rumour to rest...I have photographic evidence that moose DO exist in NZ, and that, as with their American cousins, they most enjoy grazing while in water. Members of the forum, I introduce to you--NZ's wild moose!! [img]http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h116/NZAppaloosas/EbonyCreek12.jpg[/i…] [img]http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h116/NZAppaloosas/EbonyCreek2.jpg[/img] [img]http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h116/NZAppaloosas/EbonyCreek3.jpg[/img] [img]http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h116/NZAppaloosas/EbonyCreek9.jpg[/img] Diane