Animals & Tracks

Musk ox

The musk ox is most closely related to sheep and goats, and is an introduced species in Norway.

Created: May 30, 2022 10:15 AM

Ovibos moschatus

Height: 110–150 cm (adult shoulder height)

Weight: 180–410 kg

The musk ox (Ovibos moschatus) is most closely related to sheep and goats, and is an introduced species in Norway. It has been released repeatedly on Dovrefjell, and a small herd wandered eastwards to Femundsmarka, where a small cluster of animals still remains — mainly on the Swedish side of the border.

The musk ox lives as a herd animal on the tundra, and is adapted to severe cold. The herd is led by a lead bull, who wins the title through fights during the mating season in summer. In these fights the bulls can crash together in violent clashes.

The musk ox is a large animal that is not particularly afraid of people. If you go for a walk in Dovrefjell, you may find that the musk ox does not move out of the way as you come walking. That still does not mean you should go closer to say hello! If the musk ox is provoked, it can attack at a tremendous speed. Most attacks are false, so-called mock charges. But you will not know that until it is all over, and it is best to stay on the safe side. That is why it is recommended to keep a minimum distance of 200 metres from these animals.

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