COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE

Sept 20, 2023

Woman attacked by moose while walking dog near Ward

WARD, Colo. – Colorado Parks and Wildlife is investigating a moose attack on a woman who was walking her dog on the South Saint Vrain Trail north of Ward. The woman and her dog surprised a moose on the trail Wednesday morning. The cow moose charged the woman, headbutting and stomping on her several times. She was able to walk to a nearby neighbor’s house, where they called Boulder County deputies. The woman was transported to a local hospital. The dog has minor injuries, and the neighbor reported it was leashed. 

Wildlife officers responded to the area and were unable to find the moose. Officers placed signs near the trail warning visitors of a potentially aggressive moose in the area.

When hiking in riparian habitats, hikers should be aware moose may be in the area resting or eating. Moose can perceive dogs as a threat, and CPW encourages dog owners to keep them on-leash at all times to avoid confrontations. Cow moose can become particularly aggressive when their calf is nearby. 

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