Colorado is home to one of the fastest growing moose populations in the lower 48 states. The ancient deer species have experienced an incredible rebound in population due to reintroduction and conservation efforts. The current state population stands around 3,000 moose.
Colorado’s Shiras Moose (Alces alces shirasi) are the smallest of the four moose subspecies but bulls still stand 6 feet at the shoulder and weigh in at over 1,000 pounds. While moose are not inherently aggressive animals, they are massive in stature and are relatively unafraid of people which can pose a risk to public safety. During the fall mating season known as the rut, Colorado’s moose population can be quite territorial and encounters during this can result in defensive charges.
The following video was taken near Rollinsville, Colorado where a group of three hikers where charged by a bull moose. Thankfully no injuries were reported but it serves as an excellent reminder to be extra aware of moose during this time of year as bull moose experience a spike in testosterone, making them more aggressive and unpredictable:
Giving moose plenty of space is crucial to staying safe in their environment but if you happen to find yourself in chance encounter with a moose and are wondering if it may become aggressive look out for indicators like laid-back ears, raised neck hairs, and a lowered head. If a moose displays these signs, immediately back away and put a barrier between yourself and the animal.
It can not be stressed enough that moose are particularly aggressive towards dogs as they perceive them as predators like wolves. Anyone who walks a dog in moose country during the rut should take extra precautions.
Town of Snowmass Village Moose Safety Guidelines:
Dogs and Moose Do Not Play Well Together
Moose can be aggressive when dogs and humans get too close. Dogs – both on and off-leash – can spook a moose to charge and seriously injure the dog’s owner. State wildlife officials caution that the large ungulates see dogs as a threat due to their similarities with wolves, their primary predator. Dogs should never be allowed to approach a moose.
When Moose Meet People
Moose do not fear humans as much as other big game species. Female moose (cows) are very protective of their young (calves) to the point of being dangerous if approached or caught off guard. Bulls also can be aggressive, especially during the breeding season (rut) in the fall.
These formidable beasts need their space and must be given command and respect when observed in the wild.
- Keep pets away as moose can get quite aggressive around them.
- If threatened by a moose, stay calm; do not run away; talk, make your presence known and slowly back off in direction you came.
While moose encounters with people are quite common, moose actually cause few problems. However, moose have “treed” people who have approached them too closely, have killed or injured pets or livestock and have chased people away from territories they are defending. Caution and common sense go a long way in preventing potential problems with moose.