BOULDER COUNTY, Colo. (Nov. 6, 2025) Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is investigating a moose attack west of Jamestown after a young bull knocked a woman to the ground and stomped her several times around 1 p.m. Wednesday. The woman, who was walking her dog off-leash near her home, suffered head and back injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital, according to CPW.
Wildlife officers searched the area but did not locate the moose. Warning signs about aggressive moose behavior have been posted nearby to alert residents and hikers.
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Why Moose Conflicts Are Increasing
Moose are the largest big game animals in Colorado and can sprint up to 35 miles per hour. Bulls tend to be more territorial and aggressive in the fall because it is their breeding season, which typically runs from late September through November. This makes encounters during this time of year especially risky.
Colorado’s moose population has grown to more than 3,000 animals statewide. As they expand their range along the Front Range, sightings and occasional conflicts have become more common in foothill communities like Boulder County.
Boulder County has seen similar incidents in recent years. In 2023, another woman was injured west of Boulder while walking her dog when a moose charged and knocked her down. CPW officers also posted warning signs following that attack and reminded residents that most moose conflicts involve dogs.
Dogs Are Usually Involved in Moose Encounters
According to CPW, the majority of moose attacks involve dogs. Moose instinctively perceive dogs as predators, similar to wolves. Encounters are especially likely near creeks, ponds, and willow thickets where moose feed and rest.
Keeping pets leashed at all times is the most effective way to prevent a charge. Wildlife officers recommend using a short leash and avoiding dense riparian areas when moose are present.
What To Do If a Moose Charges
Experts say moose encounters require quick action and situational awareness.
Create distance immediately. Run away and use a large object such as a tree, rock, or vehicle as a barrier. Unlike with bears, running is the correct response when a moose charges.
Keep moving toward safety. Seek shelter in a building, car, or behind natural cover.
If knocked down, curl into a ball. Protect your head and neck with your arms and remain still until the moose leaves. Fighting back can worsen the situation.
Keep dogs leashed and close. A leashed dog is less likely to provoke a moose or trigger a defensive response.
Watch for warning signs of aggression. Flattened ears, raised hackles, lowered head, body swaying, or lip licking all signal that a moose is agitated. If you notice any of these behaviors, back away immediately.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
A Growing Wildlife Success Story
Moose were reintroduced to Colorado in 1978 and have since become one of the state’s most visible wildlife success stories. Populations now thrive across the high country and occasionally wander into the foothills and cities, including Boulder. Earlier this year, wildlife officers relocated a young bull moose from a neighborhood in North Boulder after it was spotted wandering through residential areas.
As more people share trails and open spaces with wildlife, officials urge hikers and pet owners to practice caution and respect. Giving moose the space they need helps protect both people and animals.
Leave No Trace Reminder
Respect wildlife by observing from a distance, keeping pets under control, and giving moose the right of way. Responsible recreation helps keep Colorado’s trails and wild places safe for everyone.
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