"If recreating with dogs, maintain control of your pets with leashes and don’t allow them to chase moose or other wildlife."
www.bigcountrynewsconnection.com
BLACKFOOT - Late in the afternoon on Friday, May 24, a turkey hunter was attacked by a female moose on a section of Bureau of Land Management land bordering the Snake River near Blackfoot.
According to Idaho Department of Fish and Game officials, the individual was hunting turkeys downstream of Wadsworth Island, a few miles south of the Blackfoot city limits, when he inadvertently startled a female moose with her twin calves.
The moose began to charge, and though he fired two warning shots at the ground in front of her, she was not deterred. As the moose knocked him to the ground, he was able to fire a third shot which made contact with the animal. The moose ran off, and the hunter was able to leave the area safely. The hunter reported to Idaho Fish and Game that he was “bruised up” and would seek medical attention if his injuries appear to be more serious.
As he left the area, the individual noted that at one point he could see the injured moose a few hundred yards away, bedded down. She stood up and began grazing while her calves nursed. The full extent of her injuries was unknown as of Saturday.
IDFG officials say they will be placing signs near boat ramps on the river in the vicinity of the encounter, cautioning the public to be aware of a moose with calves and to maintain a safe distance if the animals are spotted.
Officials say, though conflicts with moose are usually rare, moose can be defensive and dangerous if startled. This is particularly true during the fall when bulls are rutting and in the spring when females have calves.
IDFG officials say the encounter serves as an important reminder to all outdoor enthusiasts to be aware of your surroundings, especially when recreating in thick vegetation or near rushing water where moose and their young can be harder to see and hear.
What to do if you encounter a moose?
Idaho Turkey Hunter Shoots Moose in Self Defense
BLACKFOOT - Late in the afternoon on Friday, May 24, a turkey hunter was attacked by a female moose on a section of Bureau of Land Management land bordering the
According to Idaho Department of Fish and Game officials, the individual was hunting turkeys downstream of Wadsworth Island, a few miles south of the Blackfoot city limits, when he inadvertently startled a female moose with her twin calves.
The moose began to charge, and though he fired two warning shots at the ground in front of her, she was not deterred. As the moose knocked him to the ground, he was able to fire a third shot which made contact with the animal. The moose ran off, and the hunter was able to leave the area safely. The hunter reported to Idaho Fish and Game that he was “bruised up” and would seek medical attention if his injuries appear to be more serious.
As he left the area, the individual noted that at one point he could see the injured moose a few hundred yards away, bedded down. She stood up and began grazing while her calves nursed. The full extent of her injuries was unknown as of Saturday.
IDFG officials say they will be placing signs near boat ramps on the river in the vicinity of the encounter, cautioning the public to be aware of a moose with calves and to maintain a safe distance if the animals are spotted.
Officials say, though conflicts with moose are usually rare, moose can be defensive and dangerous if startled. This is particularly true during the fall when bulls are rutting and in the spring when females have calves.
IDFG officials say the encounter serves as an important reminder to all outdoor enthusiasts to be aware of your surroundings, especially when recreating in thick vegetation or near rushing water where moose and their young can be harder to see and hear.
What to do if you 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 have bear spray, use it! Bear spray can be purchased online or at most sporting goods stores. It is important to keep it readily accessible on your body.
- 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.
