A moose attacked a woman walking her dog along the South Saint Vrain Trail in Colorado, according to Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW).
Chris Ray was out walking her dog when the pair surprised a cow (female) moose. The agitated moose proceeded to charge, headbutt, and trample Ray multiple times.
She was able to get behind a tree for safety after the moose trampled her twice, sustaining injuries from barbed wire that she tripped over in the process. The moose then turned its attention towards attacking the dog—who was on a now-unaccompanied leash—who evaded its charges several times. Ray and her dog, Nala, were able to get away and made it safely to a neighbor's house, and then a local hospital for medical attention.
In an interview with KDVR, Ray shared details, comparing the attack to "falling off a two-story building." She also reported she had suffered three broken vertebrae in her back, a broken rib, and soft tissue damage, especially around her kidney. Nala—who was leashed during the moose encounter—suffered only minor injuries.
Ray acknowledged that the moose was defending its baby, and that she "wanted to get back home and see my baby too, so I got myself down that trail." She shared with KDVR that she wanted others to be aware and act cautiously around moose, understanding that they are dangerous animals.
Wildlife officers were unable to find the moose, but have posted signs alerting hikers that there is a cow moose with calves active in the area. The signs also have a reminder that moose may behave aggressively to defend their offspring from both people and dogs.
Colorado Parks & Wildlife
How Common Are Moose Attacks?
While moose attacks in Colorado are usually uncommon, there have been four attacks in the state this year. They have all taken place in Boulder and Teller counties.
The most recent attack also involved hikers out with their dogs; CPW has noted that moose can perceive dogs as a threat. Leashing your dog while hiking in moose country can help keep your dog from startling a cow or bull.
When calves are present, moose are much more likely to behave aggressively, and are known to chase people and dogs that they perceive as a threat toward their young. During mating season in the fall—known as the rut—male moose in particular will behave more aggressively.
One other factor at play: As wild habitat for moose decreases, these massive and unpredictable animals are more likely to venture into areas inhabited by humans.
How Can I Avoid a Moose Attack?
While accidents happen, there are a few things you can do to protect yourself.
- View moose from a safe distance of at least 25 yards.
- Never come between a cow moose and her calf.
- Leash your dogs.
- Recognize signs of aggression (raised hair on a moose's neck or back, pinned back ears, constant licking of lips).
- If a moose charges, run away as quickly as possible as moose will often stop when they feel the perceived threat is far enough away.
- If possible, get behind a sturdy structure, like a tree, large boulder, or building.
- If attacked and knocked over, curl into a ball and protect your head and vital organs.
Always be aware of your surroundings and be on the lookout for wildlife. While encounters with moose are rarely fatal, injuries suffered from these large creatures are still incredibly painful—the last thing anyone would want when going out for a hike.
READ MORE: What to Do If You Encounter a Mountain Lion in the Wild
