Woman Nearly Trampled After Attempting To Pet A Moose In Colorado
A recent video from Breckenridge, Colorado, serves as a stark reminder of the risks of approaching wildlife. Captured by professional photographer Anna Stonehouse, the footage shows a woman attempting to pet a moose, an action that could have turned deadly.
The Incident
The video begins with a woman walking toward a moose grazing near the side of a road. Despite warnings from onlookers shouting for her to back away, she extends her hand to touch the animal. The moose, startled by the intrusion, reacts defensively and attempts to kick her.
Stonehouse, who recorded the incident, expressed her alarm on Facebook: “I thought I was going to witness her getting stomped to death!” Fortunately, the woman retreated before any severe harm occurred, and the moose moved on to a nearby bush to continue eating undisturbed.
Consequences of Harassing Wildlife
The woman’s actions didn’t go unnoticed by authorities. Colorado Parks and Wildlife confirmed on Twitter that she received a ticket for harassing wildlife. Their message was clear: “LEAVE WILDLIFE WILD. DO NOT FEED OR PET.”
This incident emphasizes a critical rule when interacting with nature—wild animals are not domesticated pets, and any attempt to approach or touch them can provoke a dangerous reaction. Such behavior endangers both humans and the animals themselves.
Why Moose Are Particularly Dangerous
Moose, though seemingly calm and majestic, are among the most hazardous animals in North America. According to District Wildlife Manager Elissa Slezak, more people are attacked by moose annually than by any other species of wildlife. Moose are unpredictable, especially when they feel cornered or threatened, and their size and strength make their defensive maneuvers, like kicking or charging, highly dangerous.
Guidelines for Interacting with Wildlife
Colorado Parks and Wildlife and other organizations regularly remind the public of essential safety tips when encountering wildlife:
- Maintain Distance: Always keep a safe distance from wild animals, even if they appear calm or uninterested.
- Do Not Approach: Avoid any attempt to touch, feed, or otherwise interact with wildlife.
- Be Observant: If an animal shows signs of distress or aggression, back away slowly and leave the area.
- Educate Yourself: Learn about the behavior of local wildlife to better understand how to coexist safely.
A Reminder for All Nature Enthusiasts
This close call in Breckenridge highlights the importance of respecting wildlife and their habitats. While encounters with animals like moose can be awe-inspiring, they also come with significant risks if boundaries are ignored. For everyone’s safety—humans and animals alike—it’s essential to follow established guidelines and let wildlife remain undisturbed.
This incident serves as a teachable moment: admiration for nature should never override common sense and respect for the natural world.
