Unprovoked moose attacks are a common occurrence in Colorado. Here’s how to avoid them

EVERGREEN, Colorado – Take a trip to Evergreen Lake and you’ll see signs everywhere warning of potentially aggressive elk in the area.

One of them is particularly popular. The locals have nicknamed her “Feisty”.

“She came out and chased cars and a lot of people with dogs, and she actually attacked several dogs and injured a couple of dogs, broke their legs and things like that,” said Christie Greene, president and founder of Wild Aware.

Wild Aware was founded with the mission of promoting coexistence between wildlife and humans, a mission that has become even more important in recent weeks as reports of moose attacks continue to be documented across the state.

A group of volunteers makes their rounds around the Evergreen Lake area, alerting visitors to the moose and reminding them to keep their distance during calving season.

Wild Aware partners with Denver Mountain Parks, Evergreen Parks and Rec, and Evergreen Audubon on outreach and patrol.

According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, conflicts with elk and moose often occur when their young are nearby. Many of these conflicts involve domestic animals that the animals perceive as a threat.

The recent moose attacks across the state have all been unprovoked. In the last eight days, there have been three moose attacks in Estes Park – two of which involved children.

Unprovoked moose attacks are a common occurrence in Colorado. Here’s how to avoid them

The Nature Conservation Agency described the number of attacks this year as “unprecedented.”

“Elk with young calves are known to be aggressive. However, we have never seen a year like this,” CPW area wildlife manager Jason Duetsch said in a statement. “All three attacks were unprovoked and unfortunate accidents. We have no clear evidence that these attacks came from the same animal, which underscores how unusual this behavior was for the elk.”

Near Colorado Springs, CPW reported that a deer trampled on a person’s dogs and attacked a pregnant woman Friday night.

Greene points out that such incidents are becoming more common due to increased co-existence. As the human population increases, so does the likelihood of unwittingly coming into contact with wild animals.

Often there is a calf nearby and you don’t know it. Then the mother can go on the defensive and attack.

Bottom line: If you live near elk, stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

“They’re really fun to watch, but you really have to give them space and respect,” Greene said.

CPW recommends keeping your pets on a leash and scanning the area at all times when outdoors. It also recommends teaching children to avoid wildlife and keep a close eye on them when outdoors.