The moose is among the wide variety of wildlife which can be found in North Idaho. Contrary to what you may have heard about moose, they are not cute!
Do not be fooled by the masses of cute, cuddly moose items found adorning the shelves of many Northern Idaho gift shops. These shops may carry everything from stuffed moose toys to moose print pajama pants. Local shops also pride themselves on the handmade gifts you can purchase, such as (but not limited to) moose signs for your house or yard, jewelry, and occasion cards.
These kinds of items may give a visitor who has never seen a moose the wrong idea. Moose are very dangerous animals. Seeing a moose standing in the middle of the road is not uncommon in Northern Idaho, but do not, ever, get out of your car and approach the moose. If they feel threatened they can attack.
A moose can weigh as much as 1500 pounds and stand taller than you. They have huge antlers and sharp hooves. A female moose with her young is probably one of the worst times to happen upon a moose, as well as Bull Moose in mating season. If you happen to come upon one while hiking or taking a walk, back away slowly and get behind something until it appears safe to get away. Try not to panic and scare the moose.
It is important to know that moose do not like dogs. Moose are harassed by wolves and coyotes, therefore your pet is also a threat to them. Use caution when walking in the wilderness with your dog. As much as we all love our animals, if a moose attacks while you’re with your dog I would suggest to let your protector take care of it and run away.
Do not try to feed moose, they are not friendly and it is illegal.
Your best bet, if you see a moose is to keep your distance. If you see one in the middle of the highway or side roads than stop a good distance away and wait for it to move, sometimes it may take a while but they will eventually move.
Aside from the dangers, it is amazing to see the wildlife which roams Northern Idaho. Have fun and take pictures with caution!
Comments
Great advice, Jenn. When I lived in Colorado, people used to think elk were fascinating too, until they got caught in a herd with 200 of them crossing the road. Elk/car accidents like moose/car accidents are not pretty.
This is so true, Jennifer. My Dad lives in Maine and we've come across quite a few moose. It's best to watch them from a distance (and hope they don't wander into the middle of the street while you're driving!).
I've heard of moose attacking people. They are huge animals. I sure wouldn't want to mess with one!
What about chocolate mousse? :-) We saw some moose while in Banff and they were huge. Nice to look at from afar but I wouldn't want to be chased by one.
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