Turkey hunter attacked by cow moose with calves near Blackfoot

The following is a press release and file photo from Idaho Fish and Game.

BLACKFOOT – Late in the afternoon of Friday, May 24, a turkey hunter was attacked by a cow moose on a section of Bureau of Land Management land bordering the Snake River below Wadsworth Island, several miles south of the Blackfoot city limits.

The man was turkey hunting when he accidentally spooked a female moose and her twin calves. The female moose began to charge, and although he fired two warning shots at the ground in front of her, she was not deterred.

When the moose knocked him to the ground, he was able to fire a third shot that struck the animal. The moose ran away and the hunter was able to safely leave the area. He reported to Idaho Fish and Game that he was “bruised” and would seek medical attention if his injuries appeared to be more serious.

As he was leaving the area, the man noted that at one point he saw the injured cow moose lying a few hundred yards away. She got up and began to graze while her calves nursed. The full extent of her injuries is currently unknown.

Idaho Fish and Game will post signs near the river boat ramps near the encounter alerting the public to watch for moose with calves and to maintain a safe distance if the animals are sighted.

Although conflicts with moose are usually rare, moose can become defensive and dangerous when startled, especially in the fall when bulls are in rut and in the spring when females are giving birth to calves.

This encounter is an important reminder for all outdoor enthusiasts to be aware of their surroundings, especially when in dense vegetation or near rushing water, where moose and their young may be harder to see and hear.

What to do if you encounter a moose?

• Keep your distance, at least three car lengths between you and the animal. Never approach a moose, especially a female with her young.
• If you are traveling with dogs, keep your pets under control with a leash and do not let them chase moose or other wildlife.
• A moose often blinks, paws, and licks its lips. If it lowers its ears, an attack is likely.
• If a moose attacks, run away. Try to put a tree or other object between you and the moose, or climb a tree if necessary.
• If you have bear spray, use it! Bear spray is available online or at most sporting goods stores. It is important to keep it handy on your body at all times.
• If you are on the ground, curl up and protect your face and head as much as possible. Try not to make any noise. Moose attack because they perceive you as a threat. If you lie quietly curled up on the ground, you are likely to appear less threatening.

If you have questions about recreational activities near wildlife or would like to report a wildlife encounter, contact your nearest regional fisheries and game authority. In the Southeast region, contact the fisheries and game authority in Pocatello at (208) 232-4703.