“Unprecedented” third elk attack reported in Estes Park within days

After an elk with a newborn attacked an 8-year-old girl on May 30, 2024, signs were posted around Estes Park warning of aggressive elk. (Colorado Parks and Wildlife)

DENVER (KDVR) — Colorado Parks and Wildlife is investigating a third, “unprecedented” attack of an elk in Estes Park in about a week. Friday’s attack came after a second attack was reported on June 4, days after the first elk attack on May 30.

The most recent incident occurred early Friday morning when a woman walking a leashed dog near the intersection of South St. Vrain Avenue and Stanley Avenue “startled a cow moose from approximately 20 yards away.” The agency said she tried to take refuge behind a tree for protection, but the “moose knocked her to the ground and stomped and kicked her several times.”

CPW reported that the woman sought medical attention and that the moose calf was later spotted in the area.

“Elk with young calves are notoriously aggressive, but we have never seen a year like this,” CPW area wildlife manager Jason Duetsch said in a news release. “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.”

The second moose attack was reported around 1:30 p.m. on Monday, when a female moose “suddenly attacked and trampled on a 4-year-old boy at a playground near Stanley Park.” The boy was reportedly treated at a hospital and later released.

On May 30, an 8-year-old girl was riding her bike when an elk attacked and trampled the girl from about 55 meters away.

Wildlife experts warn of dangers during the moose calving season

CPW warns Estes Park residents and visitors to be extra cautious until the end of moose calving season, which typically runs from late spring to early summer.

The agency said female elk are very protective of their young and will attack any perceived threat. Female elk can be particularly aggressive toward dogs, CPW said, and all female elk should be given a wide berth to avoid conflict.

After the first attack on May 30, signs warning of aggressive moose were put up around town. In addition, parts of the Lake Estes Loop Trail have been closed indefinitely as CPW tries to keep moose and people apart.

Calves cannot yet move independently, but male elk and female moose have a strong protective instinct for their young. Always leave young wild animals alone.