In a concerning incident near Winter Park, Colorado, a hiker was severely injured after an unexpected encounter with a moose while walking two dogs. The incident occurred on Sunday, May 24, along Little Vasquez Road, a popular area for outdoor enthusiasts.

According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), the hiker came across a female moose and her yearling. The moose charged, causing serious injuries to the hiker’s chest and arms. Fortunately, the hiker managed to release the dogs’ leashes, allowing them to escape unharmed. After the moose left the area, the injured individual sought medical assistance and was transported to a nearby hospital.

Wildlife Officials Issue Safety Warnings

Following the incident, CPW officials have been unable to locate the moose and her calf but have placed warning signs at the trailhead to alert other hikers of potential moose activity. The agency emphasizes the importance of maintaining a safe distance from moose, especially during late spring and early summer when cow moose are more protective of their young.

CPW advises hikers to choose routes with clear visibility and to make noise when approaching areas with dense vegetation, such as willows, where moose are likely to be found. They also recommend that dog owners keep their pets on a leash to prevent startling wildlife.

Moose are known to inhabit areas near water sources with abundant vegetation, making them appealing yet potentially dangerous locations for recreation. If a moose is encountered, CPW suggests backing away slowly and seeking shelter behind large objects if a moose charges.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to report any conflicts with moose to their local CPW office to help manage wildlife interactions effectively.

Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.