Utah is home to between 2,500 and 3,000 moose and each year there are reports of injuries to dogs and people as people are out recreating. The Division of Wildlife Resources has shared their tips on how to avoid conflicts with moose in Utah’s outdoors this summer. DWR representative Rusty Robinson says that “because they are not predators, people often underestimate how aggressive moose can be. With the drought conditions this year, there is the possibility that moose may migrate into lower elevation areas if they can’t find food and water in their typical habitats. People should be alert and always give moose plenty of space if they encounter them.” Never try to approach or feed a moose. Keep dogs leashed and under control at all times. Stay calm and do not run away. Talk, make your presence known and slowly back away in the direction you came. If a moose charges you or chases you, hide behind something solid (like a tree) or try to get inside a vehicle or building. If a moose knocks you down, curl into a ball, protect your head and lie still until the moose retreats. For more tips, visit wildawareutah.org.
