Colorado is home to over 3,000 moose and one of the fastest growing populations in the lower 48 states. Moose never really had a stable breeding population in the state, but in 1978 Colorado Parks and Wildlife transported 24 moose from Utah and Wyoming to the North Park region near Walde.
With the strong population that exists today, moose encounters in the state aren’t unheard of. And in the winter, when moose are likely to seek out locations with less snow for ease of travel in the snow, they’re fairly frequent visitors to some Colorado ski resorts. A moose recently made its way onto the slopes of Steamboat Resort, causing a stir and likely scaring some skiers and snowboarders.
Though moose typically avoid people, one that feels threatened might attack. The large animals can do a lot of damage with their kicking legs. If you see a moose, you’re best to give it plenty of space, and make sure it has a clear route to escape. Read more on moose safety below.
Alaska Department of Fish and Game Moose Safety:
How do you know when a moose might attack?
The long hairs on its hump are raised, ears laid back (much like a dog or cat), and it may lick its lips (if you can see this, you are way too close). A moose that sees you and walks slowly towards you is not trying to be your friend; it may be looking for a hand-out or warning you to keep away. All of these are dangerous situations and you should back away. Look for the nearest tree, fence, building, car, or other obstruction to duck behind.
What if a moose is obstructing my way?
Is there another way around the moose? If not, be patient. The moose will move away in time. It may take half an hour or more, but it is usually worth waiting. Sometimes a loud noise or movement will startle a moose into moving, but moose that are used to people are not easily chased away. If you have to get by, try to keep a large tree, snow berm, vehicle, building, or fence between you and the moose. Don’t approach a moose if its only escape route is in your direction, and always leave yourself one or more escape routes. As a last resort, pepper spray will often move them, or at least provide some protection if they charge. Frequently, unsuspecting dogs are let out in their backyards when lighting is poor resulting in a surprised moose and a surprised dog. Turn outside lights on and scan your yard before blindly releasing your four-legged friend into the darkness.
What if a moose charges?
Many charges are “bluff” charges, warning you to stay back and keep your distance. However, you need to take them seriously. Even a calf, which weighs 300 or 400 pounds by its first winter, can cause serious injury. When a moose charges it often kicks forward with its front hooves. Unlike with bears or even dogs, it is usually a good idea to run from a moose because they won’t chase you very far. Get behind something solid; you can run around a tree faster than a moose. If it knocks you down, a moose may continue running or start stomping and kicking with all four feet. Curl up in a ball, protect your head with your hands, and hold still. Don’t move or try to get up until the moose moves a safe distance away or it may renew its attack.