Turkey hunter attacked by cow moose with calves near Blackfoot

In the late afternoon of May 24, a turkey hunter was attacked by a cow moose on a Bureau of Land Management-controlled section of land along the Snake River below Wadsworth Island, a few miles south of the Blackfoot city limits.

The man was turkey hunting when he accidentally startled a female moose and her twin calves. The moose began to attack, and although he fired two warning shots at the ground in front of her, she was not deterred. When the moose threw him to the ground, he was able to fire a third shot that hit the animal. The moose ran away and the hunter was able to leave the area safely. He told Idaho Fish and Game he was “bruised” and would see a doctor if his injuries appeared to be more serious.

As he left the area, the man noticed that he could see the injured moose lying at one point several hundred yards away. She got up and started grazing while her calves suckled. The full extent of her injuries is not yet known.

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 if startled. This is especially true in autumn during the rutting season of the bulls and in spring when the females have 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 by pawing the ground and licking its lips. If it lowers its ears, an attack is probably imminent!
• 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 can be purchased online or at most sporting goods stores. It is important that you always carry it close to hand.
• If you are on the ground, curl up and try to protect your face and head as best 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 floor, you are likely to appear less threatening.

If you have any questions about outdoor recreation or would like to report a wildlife encounter, contact your nearest regional fisheries and game authority. In the Southeast region, contact Fish and Game in Pocatello at 208-232-4703.