A hiker was injured after he and his dog were charged by a moose south of Pocatello earlier this week.
Idaho Fish and Game says the man was on the Gibson Jack trail in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest Wednesday morning when the incident occurred. The hiker says he was unaware of the moose when it charged him from behind.
“The moose stomped him two or three times before withdrawing,” Fish and Game says.
The man was able to hike out to safety.
Authorities say conflicts with moose are pretty rate, but the animals can be defensive if they are startled.
Here are some tips from Fish and Game if you do encounter a moose.
- Keep your distance, at least three car lengths between you and the animal. Never approach a moose, especially a female with her young.
- If recreating with dogs, maintain control of your pets with leashes and don’t allow them to chase moose or other wildlife.
- A moose will often bluff by pawing the ground and licking its lips. If it lowers its ears, a charge is likely forthcoming!
- If a moose charges, run. Try to keep a tree or other object between you and the moose, or climb a tree if necessary.
- If you find yourself on the ground, curl in a ball and do your best to protect your face and head. Try not to make noise. Moose charge because they perceive you as a threat. If you are curled up on the ground quietly, you will likely appear less threatening.
- Discharging a can of bear spray may also deter a charging moose.
- If you have any questions about recreating around wildlife or if you have a wildlife encounter to report in southeast Idaho, please contact the Idaho Department of Fish and Game at 208-232-4703.