“We recommend the rule of thumb – stretch your arm out and try to cover the entire animal with your thumb,” says David Rehak Suma, a district wildlife manager with Colorado Parks and Wildlife. “If you can’t, you’re too close.”

If a moose notices you, back away slowly and calmly. Give the animal both space and time.

“The truth is we don’t know when we’ll pop their personal space bubble,” David says. “They are much faster and stronger than people realize – they can run up to 35 mph.”

Dogs are a common source of moose conflict. Keeping them on a leash is one of the most effective ways to avoid problems. Moose often hide in brush, and you may be closer than you think. Look for movement in the foliage – these are large animals, and you’ll often see some sign of their presence.

If you encounter a moose at close range, keep walking without making it obvious that you’re watching the animal. If the moose notices you, calmly and slowly increase the distance – aim for at least 150 feet. If a moose appears agitated or charges, try to put a large object, like a tree or vehicle, between you and the animal.

“It’s important to remember that we live in their habitat,” David says. “There’s a good chance you’ll encounter moose here. Focus on being observant, give them space and remember that humans can be a stressor.”

Starting in March and continuing into summer, moose shed and regrow their antlers. They consume 30 to 40 pounds of vegetation per day to fuel this growth, which can peak at nearly an inch per day during summer months.

Moose have nearly 270 degree vision due to the placement of their eyes on the sides of their heads. However, they have a blind spot directly in front of them, which impacts depth perception. While their eyesight isn’t poor, their unusual line of sight may contribute to collisions with vehicles.

If you see a moose on the road, slow down, stop if it’s safe to do so, and give the animal a wide berth.