Practice these sounds at home before your next trip! Check out the video to hear exactly what they should sound like.
You’ve built your birch bark call—now how do you use it? Speaking the language of the moose is critical during the rut. In this video, we demonstrate the two most important vocalizations you need to know: the Cow Estrus Call and the Bull Grunt.
The Cow Estrus Call (The Lover)
This is used to attract a bull by simulating a cow in heat.
Technique: Pinch your nose slightly to get a “nasally” sound.
The Sound: It is a long, wailing moan that tapers off.
When to use: This is your primary call to bring bulls in from a distance.
The Bull Grunt (The Fighter)
This challenges a bull’s dominance.
Technique: Short, deep, and aggressive guttural sounds.
The “Scrape”: We recommend using an old scapula bone or a plastic milk jug to rake nearby bushes while you grunt. This mimics a bull thrashing his antlers.
When to use: Use this when a bull hangs up just out of range. It makes him think a rival is moving in on his cow, triggering his territorial instinct.
Safety Tip: Be careful not to overdo the grunt. You want to sound like a realistic challenger, not an artificial noise machine.
