‘I did not anticipate how scary it would be’

A hiker in a national park had a close encounter with one of North America’s largest land mammals.

They captured video of a bull moose wandering towards them on a trail. This is another example of the increasing number of human-wildlife encounters.

What happened?

Hiker Nolan Lotulelei was recording his hike in Glacier National Park when he noticed a moose approaching. Video, Shared on StoryfulIt shows his POV while hiding behind a tree. Viewers can see how huge the animal is as it passes by.

“I hid behind a tree so the deer could pass,” Lotulelei said. explained. “I didn’t expect it to be this scary.”

National Park Service He said moose are not typically aggressive, but “they will defend themselves if they perceive a threat.”

But what will happen during the bull moose’s fall mating season is unpredictable, so Lotulelei made the right choice by staying out of sight.

Why are human-wildlife encounters concerning?

This can happen, although attacks by creatures such as deer, moose, and bison are not usually rapid. That’s why keeping your distance is important not only for predators like bears and mountain lions, but for all wildlife.

Rising global temperatures like that Affecting food sources and migration routesdriving deer and other animals into areas where hikers and campers are more likely to cross paths.

Moreover, national park visits are also increasing rapidly. 331 million visits in 2024According to NPS. This situation brings with it the risk of dangerous encounters; especially if visitors don’t know the rules or don’t follow them.

In fact, disrespectful park goers are so common that they have been given a popular nickname: turons.

Unfortunately wild animals attack humans This is more likely as environmental changes bring them closer to human areas. Beyond facing diminishing habitats, many are becoming habituated and dependent on human food sources as they attempt to survive.

As urban areas expand into natural areas, it is more important than ever that we maintain a healthy coexistence to keep both humans and animals out of harm’s way.

What can we do to better coexist with wildlife?

park authorities He has repeatedly warned visitors to stay at least 25 meters away from large wildlife such as moose, elk and bison, and no more than 100 meters away from predators such as bears and wolves. As the deer video shows, it’s wise to remain calm and still when an animal approaches.

Conservation groups and wildlife management programs across the U.S. are working to reduce dangerous encounters by creating wildlife corridors. Around the world, these corridors and habitat restoration zones are giving animals more room to move around safely.

For those venturing into nature, it’s simple: stay alert, keep your distance, and remember that sharing this space means respecting the wild inhabitants who arrived there first.

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