Colorado’s moose population, despite historical records dating back to the 1850s showing that they never had stable breeding population up until their introduction in the late 1970s, is one of the fastest growing in the lower 48 states. There are around 3,000 moose spread out across the state, with the Shiras moose, the smallest of the four subspecies, making up the population.
The massive animals are generally limited to cold climates due to their large size and insulating fur. They’re most commonly spotted in forested areas with streams and ponds, generally feeding on leaves, bark, and twigs from trees and shrubs. Their favorite foods come from the native willow, aspen, and balsam fir trees.
Mount Sneffels is one of Colorado‘s many 14ers, stretching to a summit of around 14,155 feet. There are two separate routes up the mountain, the South Slopes and the Southwest Ridge. Both, however, are ranked as Class 3 and are not for beginners. Based on their desired habitat and diet, you likely wouldn’t expect to find a moose high in the alpine, but these Colorado hikers came face-to-face with one around 13,000 feet on the mountain, a region far beyond the forests usually preferred.
Despite seeming rather harmless, moose can be extremely dangerous when they feel threatened or challenged by people. Approaching or getting to close can lead to disastrous consequences. Fortunately these hikers knew to get off the trail and give the moose plenty of space. Read more on moose safety in Colorado below.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife Moose Safety:
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.
