If you are enjoying the outdoors it would be helpful to know what to do if you had an encounter with a moose. Utah is home to over 2,500 moose and they are definitely at home in forested areas in northeastern Utah. Adult moose in Utah can weigh between 600 to 1,000 pounds, and bulls can stand 6 feet tall at the shoulder. Due to their large size, moose can be dangerous when they feel threatened. Some physical warning signs that a moose may become aggressive include lowering their head, having hair standing up on the neck, licking their snout, and pinning their ears back. If you encounter a moose, here are some tips to help you stay safe. Always give the moose a lot of space and watch its behavior. 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 information, visit www.wildlife.utah.gov.
