Survive a Moose Attack
More Articles Related to WildlifeMany people fear wildlife such as moose and bears while venturing into the wilderness. Though there is some potential for dangerous encounters, nearly always these are caused by foolish decisions on the part of the human.
Moose have been been making a comeback in North America. In a number of northern states and Canada moose populations are soaring and this means moose and man are crossing paths more commonly.
If you come upon moose they will often stand their ground and watch you. But make no mistake, moose are dangerous animals. Weighing up to 1500 pounds, 6-1/2 feet at the shoulder, with long legs, sharp hooves and impressive antlers, moose are often aggressive animals that will attack humans. The shear size of moose means that they can plow through bushes and deep snow much faster than you can run.
When are Moose the Most Dangerous?
The most dangerous time of the year to meet up with cow moose (female moose) is in the spring and early summer when they may very well have young calves. Use common sense and never walk between a moose and it's calf.
Bull moose are generally most aggressive during the fall mating season when they may perceive you as a threat and potential competitor to the cow moose they are courting. In fact, bull moose have been known to take on passing locomotives!
Moose also have a natural hatred of all canines, as they are often prayed upon and harassed by coyotes or wolves. If you meet up with a moose be sure to keep your dog under control in order to avoid a moose confrontation.
Bull moose have been known to attack passing locomotives
Should you encounter a moose be sure to back off a bit and give it plenty of room. However you may surprise a moose while traveling through overgrown country or the moose may surprise you by suddenly tromping into your camp unexpectedly. In close quarters always back away slowly and calmly.
Survive an Attacking Moose
Sometimes an agitated moose will charge directly toward you and then veer off at the last moment. This is an unmistakable signal that the moose is attempting to scare you off because it perceives you as a threat. Other signs of moose aggression include walking toward you, laying back its ears, stomping the ground, and swinging its head from side to side.
Should a moose attack, you can usually make a run for it and be OK. The moose is does not consider you as food, it is merely attempting to drive you off and will generally stop running after a short distance. If you find yourself in close quarters with a moose and cannot get away (perhaps thick brush impedes your progress or your were surprised), try to get behind a large tree and keep yourself opposite the moose. If you can, climb a tree but you must be able to get high enough so that the moose cannot reach you.
Once the moose seems to have left the area, be very careful. Moose have been known to return in a short time in an attempt to get you again!
If a moose succeeds in attacking you, curl up into a fetal position and play dead. Do not attempt to fight back as this will only further enrage the animal. Generally the moose will stomp and kick at you. Protect your head, back, and neck as much as possible.
Respect Moose and Survive Another Day
Moose are majestic wild beings. When you are in the wilderness you are in their territory. Treat them with respect and you will survive another day.
Northern Maine
I don't suggest making a lot of noise or blowing a whistle. Although this could be wise while walking through the woods to make your presence known. When you meet a moose It would not be advisable. Especially not during the rutting season. Bull moose can be extremely aggressive and tend not to back down from anything when their with a possible mate. My dad and I had an enormous bull moose charge our truck one fall while bird hunting. It did over $3,000 of damage to the front end of our truck and we were parked. I absolutely love moose but that encounter gave me a healthy respect for how powerful and fearless an animal they truly are. I think the best advice is to back away slowly and quietly.
You are welcome to share this Survival Topic with others. I only request that you use a short blurb (not the entire survival content) and this code to
link to the origional:
north idaho
You can also make alot of noise or blow a whistle.