Colorado Moose Are Getting Aggressive: How to Stay Out of Trouble

As more and more Coloradans head outdoors, the chances for wildlife encounters are on the rise. Failure to give Colorado's wildlife enough space can result in a scary encounter for both humans and our pets.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife is reminding residents about yielding to wildlife after a man and his dogs were charged by a moose near Woodland Park.

Teller County Moose Charges Colorado Man, Stomps Dogs

According to KKCO News 11, a man and his dogs were charged by a Moose near Woodland Park in Teller County. The man was knocked to the ground and forced to roll under a vehicle to escape the animal. From under the car, the man watched the female moose stomp on his dogs before it charged his wife, who ran back in the house.

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Moose Encounters: 5 Tips To Avoid Trouble

• Keep Your Distance: Moose may seem like slow-moving animals, but they are not. Experts recommend staying at least 50 yards away, especially if the animal is upset or with calves.
• Never Approach for a Photo (Seriously): Do not be one of the idiots on the internet who get seriously hurt going for a wildlife selfie. Moose will charge instantly if they feel scared or cornered.
• Watch for Warning Signs: If a moose lays its ears back, raises its hackles (neck hair), licks its lips, or stomps, it may be about to charge.
• Keep Dogs Leashed and Quiet: Moose are easily scared by dogs. They resemble wolves. Unleashed or barking dogs will upset a moose quickly.
• If a Moose Charges—Run and Get Behind Something: Do not stand your ground with a moose. If charged, put something between you and the animal, such as a tree, boulder, or vehicle.

Things You Need To Know About Colorado Moose

Moose were first introduced to Western Colorado in 2005. By 2007, 91 moose had been moved to the Grand Mesa and released in areas such as the Skyway area, Muddy Creek, and Buzzard Creek drainages. Today, moose are estimated to be around 400 animals living on Grand Mesa near Grand Junction.