Moose etiquette

  • Published
  • By compiled staff reports
  • Eielson Resources office
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Moose should be viewed with caution at all times. Each moose has its own personality and their reaction to people can't be predicted. 

A cow moose with a calf is a very protective mother. If she thinks her calf if threatened, she may become mean and aggressive. 

Also, remember that a moose wandering around Fairbanks gets barked at and chased by dogs, honked at by cars, and yelled at by people, so they may be very temperamental.

Here are some pointers on how to behave around moose. Parents should make sure their children know these safety rules:

1. Never get between a cow and her calf.

2 Don't walk toward a moose if you can avoid it; try to remain at least 50 feet away.

3. Never throw anything, including snowballs, at moose.

4. Always keep dogs under control or leave them at home. Dogs can unnecessarily harass moose and may be seriously injured or killed.

5. Avoid moose that are near fences or houses; they may feel cornered and charge.

6. Try to get behind a tree if a moose charges. A person can run around a tree better than a moose.

7. Remember that moose kick with their front feet.

8. Remember - if a moose lays its ears back or the hair on its hump stands up, the moose is angry or afraid and may charge...back off!