As Nederland residents often notice, the Shiras moose (Alces alces shirasi) is quite prevalent, not only in our beautiful town and local wilderness areas, but across most of the state, especially during the spring to summer seasons. Historically, the numbers of Shiras moose in the state were significantly lower, with individuals only occasionally wandering through. In 1978, many more moose were brought to the state in an effort to grow their population. This has definitely worked. There are now nearly 3,000 moose throughout the state, with a growing population thanks to reintroduction and limiting hunting in critical moose habitat zones throughout Colorado.

The Shiras moose is the largest member of the deer family in North America, and are herbivores like the rest of the ungulates (hooved animals) out there. The bull males will shed their palmate (handlike) antlers after every mating, believe or not, and regrow them each spring.

One of their favorite meals is the bark of quaking aspen trees. You may notice the distinct chew marks on local aspen groves throughout the area. Moose also enjoy many aquatic plants, and it might surprise you that they make excellent swimmers. Using their large nostrils and noses as a snorkel, a moose may dive up to 20 feet below the surface to forage on underwater vegetation, and they are known to swim up to nine miles.

With such an active moose population in our beloved town and mountains, it is important to learn as much as you can about living and adventuring in moose

You may not immediately know that moose can exhibit quite aggressive behavior, especially this time of year. The cows likely have their young calves beside them, making them very protective of their babies. A good rule with any wild animal is never to come between a mama and her young.

You may have encountered an aggressive moose if they are walking in your direction, stomping their feet, peeling their ears back, grunting, and/or throwing their head back and forth. Since moose can weigh up to 1,500 pounds, encountering an angry one is not to be taken lightly.

If you see moose, do not go near them and give them plenty of space -- 200 feet or more. Even if you think they aren’t noticing your presence, they probably are. Make sure that if you are walking with your dog, you keep it close, preferably on a leash, and under control. Moose are used to the threat of canids like coyotes and wolves, and even small dogs may appear as a predator to them and cause them to become defensive.

Some other specific tips of what to do if a moose becomes defensive and aggressive are to back away with your palms facing the moose and speak softly and reassuringly, like you would to a little child. If the moose charges, get behind a large tree or rock in order to separate your body from the moose. Most moose charges are bluffs, but don’t count on it. If the moose attacks you, curl up in a little ball pretending you’re dead. Protect your head and neck with your arms. If you are wearing a backpack, your pack will protect your back.

We are lucky to have such a wonderful and healthy population of wildlife like the Shiras moose in our little town. Just as with any of our other animal brothers and sisters, it is important to remember that this is their home too. We all must find ways to cohabit peacefully, and with a little bit of knowledge and respect for our moose, we can continue to enjoy their presence for years to come.

Michelle Witte is the Nature Education Director at Wild Bear Nature Center in Nederland, Colorado. Wild Bear Nature Center is located at 20 E. Lakeview Drive, at the Caribou Village Shopping Center. For more information check out https://www.wildbear.org/