SILVERTHORNE, Colorado – Police officers in Silverthorne, Colorado, were called to the scene of a large bull moose that had managed to get itself wrapped up in a backyard swing. The police officers received information on how to free the animal from Colorado Parks & Wildlife before attempting to help it, eventually getting the swing untangled from the moose and letting it run away.
Moose mating season runs from September through November, and often leaves bull moose more aggressive and territorial. Like any wild animal, moose need to be given plenty of space. They frequently stand their ground and can charge if they feel threatened, moving up to 35 mph. At least 25 yards (75 feet) should always be left between a person and a nearby moose.
If you encounter any distressed animal in the wild, no matter how big or small, do not interfere. Leave the animal where it is and contact a local licensed wildlife rehabilitation facility, wildlife services, or 911. Helping it without proper training and understanding of the animal can do a lot more harm than good, both to you and the animal.
Good on these officers for taking the time to learn the proper way to save this animal, and for actually saving the animal. Moose are big, dangerous, and properly intimidating, and these police officers seemed to handle the situation very well.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife on Moose Agression:
Signs of Aggression
- Laid back ears
- Raised hairs on the neck
- Lowered head
- Swaying back and forth
- Licking of the snout
- Cocking of the head
- Rolling eyes and ears back
- If a moose reacts to your presence, you are too close.
What do I do if a moose displays signs of aggression?
​If a moose displays aggressive behavior or begins to charge, run as fast as you can and try to put a large object between you such as a boulder, car or tree. Avoid animals that are behaving belligerently or abnormally.​  Moose that exhibit dangerous behavior towards people should be reported to Colorado Parks and Wildlife.