ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Dale Chorman, a 70-year-old man from Alaska, lost his life during a photography expedition when he attempted to capture images of a pair of newborn moose calves. In an unfortunate turn of events, Chorman was charged and kicked to death by a protective mother moose. His companion, who remains unidentified, managed to escape unscathed.
The incident occurred as Chorman and his companion were exploring the brush in search of the moose. According to Austin McDaniel of the Alaska Department of Public Safety, the cow moose attacked Chorman during their trek. While moose are generally not aggressive, they become exceptionally protective when their young are endangered.
During calving season, which typically spans from mid-May to mid-June, moose, especially cow moose with their calves, can exhibit heightened aggression. McDaniel stated, “Cow moose with calves are going to be some of the more aggressive moose you’re going to come in contact with.” The average female moose weighs around 800 pounds, while males weigh approximately 1,600 pounds. These massive animals employ tactics such as kicking and stomping in their attacks, occasionally resulting in fatal consequences.
This unfortunate incident serves as a reminder that provoking moose or approaching a cow moose with calves can have dire outcomes. In a similar incident in 1995, a group of students near the University of Alaska Anchorage deliberately harassed a cow moose and her calf, throwing snowballs for hours. In their agitated state, the moose attacked and ultimately killed a 71-year-old passerby.
Alaska is home to a substantial moose population of 200,000, with an estimated five to ten moose attacks occurring annually. While most of these incidents are non-fatal, collisions with moose on roadways pose a more significant threat to humans. Due to their immense size, these collisions can result in severe damage to both life and property.
The Alaska State Troopers confirmed that the cow moose involved in the attack was no longer in the area. As moose calving season continues, it is crucial for humans to exercise caution and maintain distance from these large ungulates. Avoiding close contact during this time is advised to prevent potentially dangerous encounters.