Tracking the Journey of a Moose Named Rutt in Minnesota

46

In the southern reaches of Minnesota, an intriguing story has captured the attention of a dedicated following – the journey of Rutt, a young male moose who embarked on an unexpected adventure. First spotted 140 miles (225 km) northwest of Minneapolis, Rutt’s travels have become a subject of fascination for a growing number of admirers, with over 18,000 followers avidly monitoring his progress on a dedicated Facebook page.

To his devoted fans, Rutt goes by endearing monikers such as “Bullwinkle” and “Rutt,” the latter name paying homage to a lovable, scatterbrained moose featured in the movie “Brother Bear.” This unusual journey has piqued the interest of not only the public but also experts in the field. According to a big game expert from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, moose are typically found in northern Minnesota. Thus, Rutt’s excursion into the southern and central parts of the state is a rare and remarkable occurrence. Todd Froberg, the agency’s big game program coordinator, suggests that the young moose is likely in search of his home territory or the company of other moose and is expected to continue his northward journey.

One of the enthusiasts, Bernie Stang, who first spotted Rutt in late October, believes that the moose is lost and simply trying to reunite with his family. Amateur moose-tracker Brenda Johnson, who administers the Facebook page dedicated to Rutt’s journey, noticed a surge in traffic in September when the moose was sighted in Iowa, near the Minnesota border. She speculates that Rutt’s route took him from North Dakota through South Dakota and Iowa before returning to Minnesota, aligning with news reports of moose sightings in South Dakota that match his description.

Interestingly, the Central MN Moose on the Loose Facebook page was initially created by Brenda Johnson in 2018 to track another moose, whose unfortunate fate was sealed when it was fatally struck by a semi-truck while attempting to cross a highway. Rutt’s fans had been anxiously watching his progress, hoping to hear news that the majestic creature would safely navigate the perilous Interstate 94 – a feat he eventually accomplished.

For many like Danielle Magnuson, the search for Rutt provided a welcome distraction from life’s stresses. Spending several days a week on the quest, she finally located the elusive moose on November 13th near Sauk Centre. She describes the experience as akin to spotting a unicorn, emphasizing the sheer beauty of these animals, a rarity in their region.

Rutt’s presence has had a profound impact on those who have had the privilege of witnessing his journey. For 26-year-old Holly Stang, Bernie Stang’s daughter, Rutt’s sighting was an especially touching moment, as she had never before seen a moose. It was Holly who bestowed the name “Rutt” upon the magnificent creature. Bernie Stang reflects on the joy and hope that Rutt has brought to countless people, noting that for many, encountering a moose is a once-in-a-lifetime event.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Rutt the Moose

More about Rutt the Moose

• Minnesota Star Tribune
• Central MN Moose on the Loose Facebook Page
• [Bernie Stang’s Moose Sighting](Link not available)
• Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
• Interstate 94