New moose calves are ideal prey for wolves and bears. So, within half an hour of birth, anxious moose moms have nudged the calves upright, where they stand, wobbly legs tri-podding (or quatro-podding) for stability, until their mothers force them to take their first steps and begin the mobility exercises that might save their lives.

These brand-new calves were first photographed in the early evening of May 12, roughly 12 hours after they were born. They are by necessity quick on-the-job learners. But they also seemed happy to fold their long legs and lie down. Their mother's immediate aim was getting them back on their feet, so they could nurse and practice walking and running. Naps could come later.

Mom cajoles this calf into standing.

Although the calf hasn't quite figured out what it's supposed to do once it's up.

By the next morning, about 24 hours after birth, the calves are standing and walking, transitioning from podding to playing, and then to cantering.

Quatro-podding:

Adult moose aren't considered graceful, but they move with measured power and purpose and with surprising speed and agility if provoked. Especially mothers intent on protecting calves. Hampered by impossibly long limbs that threaten to fold, new-born calves are particularly gawky and awkward.   

Not all legs seem to work in complete unison.

Fortunately, they soon learn coordinated motion, or at least how to canter.

Within a day of birth, they are frisking and gamboling, stiff-legged, knock-kneed.