Colorado Parks and Wildlife highlights wildlife safety following a moose attack in Winter Park
A person walking two leashed dogs was attacked by a cow moose on Little Vasquez Road near Winter Park Sunday afternoon sustaining serious injuries to their chest and arms.
The victim encountered a cow moose and her yearling during the walk. The moose charged and kicked the victim several times before turning toward the dogs. The victim released the leashes, allowing the dogs to flee. Once safe, the victim left the area and was transported to the hospital by ambulance. The victim and their family have asked for privacy during recovery.
Moose. Courtesy CPW - Vic Schendel
Wildlife officers returned to the area but could not locate the moose or her yearling. Signs have been posted at the trailhead to alert visitors to moose activity in the area. Colorado Parks and Wildlife thanked the Fraser Winter Park Police Department and the Grand County Sheriff's Office for their assistance.
Cow moose typically give birth in late spring and early summer and can become more aggressive toward perceived threats to their young during this period. Cows will often hide calves while remaining nearby; if you spot a calf, turn back or leave the area.
Most moose conflicts involve dogs. When recreating near riparian or willow habitats, keep dogs on-leash to avoid startling moose. Off-leash dogs can surprise hidden calves or cows, which may then chase the dogs toward humans.
When recreating outdoors, select routes with clear visibility, make noise near willows or thick vegetation, and respect posted signs warning of aggressive moose behavior or calf activity. If you encounter a moose, give it space and time to move. Do not attempt to haze a moose — it is dangerous and constitutes illegal harassment. Warning signs that you are too close include laid-back ears, pawing the ground, snout-licking, or the moose turning to face you. If a moose charges, seek shelter behind large objects such as trees or boulders.
For more information on living with moose, visit cpw.state.co.us/living-moose. Report any conflicts with moose to your local Colorado Parks and Wildlife office at cpw.state.co.us/contact-us.
