Moose attack in Estes Park: 4-year-old boy trampled near a playground

ESTES PARK, Colorado – Colorado Parks and Wildlife warned Estes Park residents and visitors Tuesday about aggressive elk following the second attack in less than a week.

Around 1:30 p.m. Monday, a four-year-old boy was attacked near Stanley Park. Unbeknownst to the families, two moose calves were hiding in a rocky area near the park’s playground. The boy was playing there when a female moose suddenly charged at him and kicked him multiple times, CPW reported.

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A family member told CPW they scared the elk away and took the boy to a hospital, where he was treated and released Monday evening.

When a CPW officer arrived, they found several elk in the area. The officer used non-lethal beanbag rounds to prod the elk to get them to leave the park. The elk have since moved to another location; however, the playground is closed indefinitely.

Parts of the Lake Estes Loop Trail are also closed and CPW has posted signs warning of aggressive elk in the area.

While newborn calves are immobile, female elk can become aggressive if they perceive a threat. CPW advises people to be aware of nearby hiding places when engaging in outdoor recreation. Female elk can attack from several feet away.

CPW also warns against disturbing young deer, even if they appear to be alone, as the mother is most likely foraging nearby.

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Last Thursday, an 8-year-old girl was attacked by a moose in Estes Park. Her family reported that she was riding her bike when the moose chased her from about 180 feet away. The moose caught up to her and trampled on her several times. She was taken to a hospital where she was treated and then released.

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