Colorado Parks and Wildlife relocates cow moose and her calves in Steamboat Springs

Rachael Gonzales
Northwest Region Public Information Officer
970-773-8587 / [email protected]
Twitter: @CPW_NW Colorado Parks and Wildlife relocates cow moose and her calves in Steamboat Springs

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, Colo — On Wednesday, June 4, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) successfully relocated a cow and two calf moose in River Creek Park in Steamboat Springs for the safety and well-being of the moose and the public. 

“After monitoring the moose and her young over the last 48 hours, we determined they were very comfortable in the area and not going to move on their own,” said Assistant Area Wildlife Manager Justin Pollock. “While this area is perfect habitat for moose, the risk not only to their safety in a populated area and the safety of people was too high, which is why we chose to relocate them.”

CPW was able to tranquilize the cow moose and load her into a horse trailer where she was given a drug to reverse the sedation drugs. Both calves were then picked up, fully awake, and placed into the trailer as well. The cow moose was fitted with a collar and will be monitored by CPW as part of a moose population and movement study being conducted in Steamboat Springs. 

The moose and calves were safely transported to an area outside of Steamboat Springs. CPW monitored the three for a brief period of time, before leaving the area. 

This cow moose is the same one involved in the recent attack on Sunday, June 1, during which one person was seriously injured and taken to the hospital. A man also received minor injuries after being kicked by the moose while helping the first victim get to safety. CPW does not have any additional information on the condition of the female victim.

The City of Steamboat Springs has reopened River Creek Park. CPW and the City of Steamboat want to remind the public that it is not uncommon to see moose in and around the town. Moose are often found in areas near water with an abundance of willows, which is their primary food source. It is important to maintain a safe distance from moose, never approach them, and keep your dogs on a leash when hiking in moose habitat. If you know there's moose in the area or see signs warning about an aggressive animal, it's recommended to find another place to spend time outdoors.

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