Did you know that a moose attack is just as deadly as a bear attack? Moose attacks on humans have become more prevalent in recent years due to human encroachment into wild areas. And lack of knowledge on how to react or identify an agitated moose.
When you are out in the woods and you come across a moose, you are not likely to know whether it will attack you or not. So when you have a few seconds to react when faced with a charging moose, the chances of survival are slim if you are not in a position to defend yourself or run.
This is why it is advisable to carry a bear spray as it can be used to deter a wide variety of wild animals. Some people even refer to bear spray as wildlife spray as it is effective against other wildlife.
Are moose aggressive?
Not usually, but it depends on the situation. There is a likelihood that the moose may attack you if it feels threatened, especially if you come across a new mother protecting her calf or a young bull agitated.
A moose may also attack you if you startle it or if it views you as a threat. As such, moose attacks are usually unprecedented if you are unaware of the moose or if the moose has a calf or is agitated or feeling threatened.
Does bear spray work on moose?
Bear spray contains 2% capsaicin and other capsaicinoid compounds that irritate even to larger animals. Research shows you need at least 1.5% of capsaicin in a bear spay for it to be effective against bears and other wild animals to put the effectiveness into perspective. As such, any brand of specially designed bear spray will be effective against a moose.
Effect of bear spray on a moose
When you spray a moose with bear spray, the capsaicin in the product will irritate its eyes and nose, causing it to be temporarily blinded and render them to be momentarily incapacitated. The capsaicin compounds irritate the eyes, nose, and lungs’ mucous membranes, causing them to swell and burn.
If you can draw your mice from its holster and spray at the opportune moment, the effect will automatically cause the moose to recoil and halt the attack. Giving you time and opportunity to get away. The pain caused will also cause the moose to retreat in fear.
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How to avoid confrontation with a moose
Here are some tips to help you avoid a confrontation with a moose when you come across a moose;
DO’s
- Get behind a tree when a moose starts coming towards you.
- Run as fast as you can and take cover.
- Walk away from the moose before it spots you.
- Steer clear of the moose’s calf.
DONT’s
- Do not make loud noises that will startle the moose, as this may cause it to charge.
- Do not throw snow or sticks at a moose, as this may make it feel threatened.
- Do not feed the moose.
- Do not let your dog chase or bark at a moose, as this may agitate the moose.
- Do not approach the moose.
- Do not honk at a moose, as this may cause the moose to attack the car.
Conclusion:
A grown moose weighs roughly 1500 pounds, which is close to 700 pounds heavier than a grizzly. This makes it deadlier, and its actions are unpredictable, making it a more significant threat. As such, try your best to avoid confrontation, and when you spot one, do not lose sight of it until you are in a safe zone or large clearing.