Colorado’s diverse landscapes offer encounters with wildlife. While awe-inspiring, some animals can pose a danger. Awareness and preparedness are important for safe navigation.
Large Mammalian Predators and Herbivores
Colorado’s large mammals can present risks due to their size, predatory nature, or defensive behaviors.
Black bears, common across the state, are not aggressive but can become food-conditioned and lose wariness of humans. Most conflicts with bears are linked to human food sources or garbage, drawing them into populated areas. If a bear approaches, making loud noises, waving your arms to appear larger, and slowly backing away can deter it. If a black bear attacks, fighting back is recommended, as playing dead is not effective for this species. Carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it is an effective deterrent.
Mountain lions are elusive predators, and attacks on humans are rare, though their numbers are increasing where humans expand into their habitat. They avoid confrontation and prefer to hunt deer and elk. If a mountain lion is encountered, never run, as this can trigger their chase instinct. Instead, make yourself appear as large as possible by raising your arms and opening your jacket, maintaining eye contact, and speaking firmly. If an attack occurs, fighting back aggressively is best.
Moose, Colorado’s largest wild mammals, can weigh up to 1,000 pounds and stand six feet at the shoulder, posing a significant risk due to their lack of fear towards humans. They are unpredictable and can charge if threatened, especially during calving season in spring or fall rut. Signs of aggression include laid-back ears, raised neck hairs, lowered heads, and lip smacking. If a moose exhibits these behaviors or charges, running and seeking cover behind a large object like a tree or vehicle. Conflicts are often triggered by dogs, as moose perceive them as predators, so keeping dogs on a leash in moose habitat is important.
Elk, while less commonly associated with aggression than moose, can be dangerous, particularly during the fall rut when males compete for mates, or when cows protect calves. Bull elk can become territorial and aggressive. Maintain a distance of at least 75 feet away. If an elk appears jumpy or watches you carefully, you are too close.