In central Norway alone, an estimated 12,000 hunters were expected to head into local forests in the hopes of shooting down the huge, majestic animals. Often called the "King of the Forest," (Skogens Konge), a moose head makes for a prized trophy on many a hunter's wall.
State authorities have set this year's quota at about 35,000 nationwide, 8,000 just in central Norway. The value of the moose meat is likely to hit NOK 340 million (nearly USD 60 million), according to a study done by Trondheim newspaper Adresseavisen.
Hunters in central Norway are estimated to have spent around NOK 37 million on equipment.
"In addition comes the cost of butchering and processing the meat, and, not least, the major social value the hunt has," said wildlife manager Paul Harald Pedersen of Nord-Trøndelag County.
The moose hunting season lasts until October 31.
