Beware the wilds of Jackson Hole, for encountering the majestic moose comes with genuine dangers, as their seemingly tranquil demeanor can rapidly transform into aggression when their personal space is invaded or their calves are perceived to be threatened, potentially leading to severe injury or even death.
- Moose attacks are relatively rare in Jackson Hole, with incidents reported annually.
- Moose can become aggressive when provoked, threatened, or surprised, especially during calving season
- Their large size and powerful hooves can cause severe injuries or fatalities in extreme cases.
- Understanding moose behavior and maintaining a safe distance are vital to avoiding confrontations.
Moose Population In Jackson Hole
According to Wyoming Game and Fish Department officials, the moose population in Wyoming is just under 3,500 animals, with an estimated 276 living in Jackson Hole according to Wyoming Wildlife Advocates. These Moose can be found in the Willow Flats, Moose Wilson Road and along river corridors in Grand Teton National Park during the summer, and by the sagebrush flats during winter. As their population dwindles due to climate change, hunting, predation, and more, moose sightings and attacks are becoming less common, but are still a present threat in the wilderness. One dangerous thing about moose is that they do not fear humans, so keep your head on a swivel in moose country.
Recent Moose Attacks in Jackson Hole
Moose attacks are relatively rare in Jackson Hole, and tend to happen at least annually. This trend has been followed since 2021, as there has been one notable incident a year.
During 2021, a moose forcefully knocked a man to the ground while he was on the bike path northeast of Wilson Elementary School, resulting in his hospitalization. In 2022, an 89-year-old man named Ed Opler was knocked to the ground by a moose, causing him to suffer a broken scapula. In March of this year, 27-year-old Hannah Garland was charged, head-butted, and stomped on by a moose. The attack led to severe injuries, including a concussion, six broken ribs, and bone bruising on her right arm and elbow. These three incidents highlight the importance of understanding moose behavior and keeping a safe distance when encountering them in their natural habitat, as they are powerful and dangerous creatures.
Why do Moose Attack?
Moose are generally peaceful creatures, but they may charge at a human if they feel threatened or believe their calves are in danger. Such situations often arise when hikers get too close to moose, either unintentionally or deliberately. Additionally, female moose with their calves can be fiercely defensive and protective, responding aggressively to perceived threats. It’s crucial to be particularly cautious during calving season, which usually takes place in late spring and early summer, as moose can be more protective and temperamental at this time.
It is also essential to note that moose attacks are primarily defensive in nature, as most incidents involving moose occur due to unintentional proximity or startling them. Hence, if you encounter a moose and can swiftly and calmly leave the vicinity, you should be safe as moose typically won’t pursue humans over long distances.
Can Moose Kill You?
Adult male moose average 6 feet tall at the shoulder and can weigh as much as 1,400 pounds, whereas females are smaller and weigh on average 1000 pounds. On top of their size, their large size and powerful hooves can cause severe injuries or fatalities in extreme cases. As Moose can produce enough force to crush the skull of even a formidable predator like a wolf, they can inflict the same amount of damage on humans. Although injuries are reported much more often than death, a moose has the complete capability to kill you if the situation is escalated.
Safety Tips When Encountering a Moose
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially near willows, ponds, and streams.
- Keep your distance and stay at least 25 yards from a wild moose.
- Speak calmly if the moose notices you, and decide whether to continue or turn back on the trail.
- Never act aggressively towards the moose.
- If the moose is agitated, run or take cover behind a solid object; don’t stand your ground.
- If attacked, curl up into a ball to protect your head and neck.
- Never corner or threaten a moose, as this can escalate their defensive behavior.
- Try to convince them that you are not a threat
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