Moose are not generally aggressive animals but as the largest member of the deer family, when become agitated and decide to attack the results can be devastating. Moose attacks on humans are typically brought on by perceived threats including invasion of personal space, approaching their offspring and general harassment (especially in the presence of dogs which they perceive as wolves).
Providing moose with ample space and understanding their body language is usually enough to avoid attacks and anyone living in moose country should know these simple rules to avoid negative interactions. To ensure safety for both yourself and moose, always maintain a safe distance of at least 25 yards at all times. Be aware of warning signs that indicate a moose may be preparing to attack including if it stares at you, lays its ears back, raises its neck hair, lowers its head, licks its lips, shows the whites of its eyes, urinates suddenly, grunts or stomps, or performs bluff charges. If you observe any of these signs, back away slowly and seek shelter immediately.
Bear spray can be an effective deterrent in an moose attack but should only be used as a last resort rather than a first line of defense. The following video shows a questionable use of bear spray against a moose that may have been preemptive in nature. While the exact context of this moose encounter filmed in Jackson, Wyoming is unclear, it would appear this man had plenty of space to retreat and provide these moose with enough space to pass by peacefully but instead decided to blast them in the face with bear spray.
The man was in the video was reported to the Wyoming Game & Fish Department:
“This guy was pissed because he couldn’t do his morning walk because the moose were on the walking trail. We reported him to Wyoming Game & Fish Department.” -Jeffrey Cisneros
Needlessly spraying aerosolized capsaicin in the face of a wild animal is despicable behavior. Bear spray should only be used in emergency situations and this man seemingly had alternate options. If he is found to have misused bear spray, we hope he is dealt with accordingly by the authorities. Read more about moose safety from Utah DNR below:
UTAH DNR MOOSE SAFETY GUIDELINES:
Know moose behavior
Cow moose can be aggressive when they have calves in the spring and summer, and bull moose can be aggressive and territorial during the fall breeding season. Moose often feel threatened when people or dogs get too close, which can also make them aggressive and lead them to charge, knock someone over and stomp on them.
Some physical warning signs that a moose may become aggressive include:
- Lowering their head
- Hair standing up on the neck
- Licking their snout
- Pinning their ears back
Safety tips to prevent conflicts with a moose
If you encounter a moose, here are some tips to help you stay safe:
- Always give the moose a lot of space and watch its behavior.
- Never try to approach or feed a moose.
- Keep dogs leashed and under control at all times. It is against Utah law to allow dogs to chase or harass protected hoofed wildlife, like moose.
- Stay calm and do not run away. Talk, make your presence known and slowly back away in the direction you came.
- If a moose charges you or chases you, hide behind something solid (like a tree) or try to get inside a vehicle or building.
- If a moose knocks you down, curl into a ball, protect your head and lie still until the moose retreats.