The tragic death of 70-year-old Dale Chorman, who was attacked and killed by a mother moose while trying to take photos of her two newborn calves, has once again highlighted the potential danger of interacting with these wild animals. The incident occurred in Homer, Alaska, where Chorman and another individual were walking through the brush in search of the moose when the attack took place. While the exact cause of death has not been confirmed, authorities believe that the cow moose may have kicked or stomped Chorman. Despite efforts to save him, medics pronounced him dead at the scene, and the moose fled the area.
This incident is not an isolated case, as in 1995, a 71-year-old man was stomped to death by a moose on the campus of the University of Alaska Anchorage. Witnesses reported that the animals had been agitated by students throwing snowballs and harassing them, leading to the fatal attack. With up to 200,000 moose in Alaska and a human population of about 737,000, encounters between humans and these animals are not uncommon. While moose are typically not aggressive, they can become so if provoked, particularly during calving season when mothers are protective of their young calves.
The Alaska Department of Fish and Game explains that cow moose are especially defensive during calving season and may attack humans who come too close to their offspring. Authorities urge people to give moose, especially those with calves, extra space and avoid actions that could startle or agitate them. Getting between a mother moose and her calves is particularly dangerous, as the animals will go to great lengths to protect their young. Despite their seemingly docile nature, moose can be formidable creatures, with adult males weighing up to 1600 pounds and standing nearly 6 feet tall.
The tragic death of Dale Chorman serves as a stark reminder of the importance of respecting wildlife and maintaining a safe distance when encountering potentially dangerous animals. Alaska’s vast wilderness is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including moose, and it is crucial for residents and visitors alike to be aware of the risks associated with interacting with these animals. While incidents like this are rare, they underscore the need for caution and vigilance when exploring the natural beauty of the state. Authorities continue to urge the public to exercise caution and follow guidelines for wildlife encounters to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
As authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding Dale Chorman’s death, the community in Homer and beyond mourns the loss of a beloved individual. Chorman’s passion for photography and wildlife led him to venture into the wilderness in search of the perfect shot, but tragically, it resulted in a fatal encounter with a protective mother moose. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable nature of wild animals and the potential dangers that come with entering their territory. While the exact details of the attack are still being determined, the outcome is a devastating loss for Chorman’s loved ones and the community as a whole.
The Alaska Department of Public Safety and other wildlife authorities will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, residents and visitors are urged to exercise caution and remain vigilant when in areas where moose are known to frequent. By respecting the boundaries of wildlife and adhering to safe practices for interacting with animals, individuals can help prevent future incidents and ensure the safety of both themselves and the animals that call Alaska home. Dale Chorman’s tragic death serves as a poignant reminder of the need to coexist harmoniously with nature and the importance of being mindful of the risks posed by encounters with wild animals.
