Colorado Wildlife
Living with Moose
Moose have very few natural enemies in the wild and, as a result, do not fear humans as much as most other species. Moose tolerate humans longer and at closer distances. They are extremely curious and often will approach humans or houses. For these reasons, it is extremely important to understand moose behavior when living in or visiting the areas they inhabit.
While moose encounters with people are quite common, moose cause few problems. However, moose can and will "tree" people who have approached them too closely, kill or injure pets or livestock, and chase people or dogs away from territories they are defending. Caution and common sense go a long way in preventing problems with moose.
Moose Behavior
Moose Need Space
Moose may look more friendly than dangerous to wildlife watchers not used to living with this species, but like all wildlife, moose need their space. These animals move more quickly than most would think - up to 35 miles per hour - and must be given command and respect when observed in the wild.
Breeding Season
The moose breeding season is in the fall, generally late September through November. Bulls can become aggressive and territorial during this season, so be especially careful when encountering moose at this time of year. Landowners face unique challenges, as bulls have occasionally taken over pastures and injured or killed livestock while defending their territories.
Protecting Young
Moose calves are born in the later spring months, usually from mid-May through early June. Female moose (cows) are very protective of their young, and are more likely to be aggressive to people and, especially, dogs in their territory well into the summer. Cows can be dangerous if approached or caught off guard, so keep dogs on leash and avoid forage areas like thick willows when recreating.
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.
Tips for Living with Moose
Landowners
Moose can cause damage to crops, forage and fences on your property. Discover ways you can protect your property from damage caused by moose.
Contact your local Colorado Parks and Wildlife officer immediately if you run into any questions or challenges.
Damage to Property
The Game Damage Program is a Colorado Parks and Wildlife prevention and reimbursement program that compensates ranchers, farmers and landowners for damage caused by wildlife, including moose.
To be eligible for the program, the landowner must follow specific rules related to hunting and access to land, as outlined on the Game Damage Program page.
Hunters, Be Aware of Your Target
The greatest threat to Colorado’s moose are people. In fact, 15 percent of the state's moose mortality each year comes from illegal kills. Because of their docile demeanor, moose have become common victims of poaching and accidental kills. Accidental moose killings can be prevented if hunters take the time to accurately identify their targets. If you shoot a moose accidentally, please do the ethical thing and report it. If you observe someone, or know of someone, illegally shooting a moose, report it to wildlife authorities immediately.
Call your local CPW officeCrossing Paths with Moose
Moose are not frightened by snowmobiles, ATVs, or other vehicles and often travel on packed trails in winter, avoiding adjacent deeper snow. They will stand their ground and possibly charge. Do not chase, harass, or pursue wildlife on foot, a snowmobile or any other vehicle. If you encounter a moose on a trail, use an alternate route or allow the moose time to leave the area. Learn more about what to do if you come across moose on a trail or when you see them when recreating.
Tips for moose encountersLiving with Moose
Watching Moose
Tips for locating and viewing moose:
Decades ago hardly anyone ever saw a moose in Colorado. Today the state's moose populations are thriving, thanks to successful reintroduction efforts by Colorado Parks and Wildlife that begin in 1978. Moose have become a main attraction for all who enjoy watching wildlife. The state legislature even designated Walden as the "Moose Viewing Capital of Colorado" in 1995.
- Find a high spot that looks down into drainages for an excellent vantage point.
- Drive slowly along logging roads on national forest lands that parallel drainages.
- Look for moose sign—large tracks, droppings, browsed willows—along the edges of willow bottoms and aspen or pine forests. Moose tracks are very large and often show dewclaws (a rudimentary claw or small hoof not reaching the ground) in snow or mud.
- Listen for moose sounds, which are limited to grunting, with bulls being the most vocal during the mating season.
- Realize moose do not herd into large groups as do many species of big game, even in winter. They prefer to travel in small family groups or to remain secluded.
- A good place to view them is near the water, as moose are excellent swimmers and are very much at home in the water.
- Never approach moose too closely. Watch and photograph from safe distances using telephoto lenses, binoculars and spotting scopes.
- Move slowly and not directly at them. Back off if they exhibit signs of aggression.
Protect Pets
Pets May Be Viewed as Predators
Moose react to dogs as they would a wolf, one of their primary predators. The presence of dogs has led to serious moose conflicts resulting in serious injuries to humans and pets. Because of this instinctive, aggressive response, CPW officials recommend keeping dogs on a leash and under control when recreating in the backcountry, or consider leaving your dog at home.