An annual event celebrating moose is set for July 30 atop the Grand Mesa east of Grand Junction.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the U.S. Forest Service have scheduled the 12th annual Grand Mesa Moose Day for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Forest Service Visitor Center located at 20090 Baron Lake Drive off  Colorado State Highway 65.

Participants are encouraged to bring insect repellent and water as well as prepare for the possibility of rain and cooler weather.

The free event will feature kid-friendly activities, including arts and crafts as well as prize giveaways. Children can earn a prize for going on a hike with a wildlife officer to look for signs of moose activity. Experts will lead presentations on moose biology and history as well as demonstrate how biologists transplant and track moose.

“They are fascinating animals, and it’s great they are doing well in Colorado,” said Trina Romero, watchable wildlife and volunteer coordinator for the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Northwest Region. “Our management efforts have led to one of the healthiest moose populations in the country, and we are very proud of that. This is a great opportunity for everyone to learn more about how moose are doing in Colorado.”

Thanks to reintroduction efforts by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the Colorado moose population has grown to more than 3,000. 

Photographs of moose walking through towns, on popular hiking trails or ski slopes are taken almost daily. Public curiosity about the largest big game species in Colorado continues to grow as well, Romero said.

“Most people see moose by accident while hiking, fishing or camping,” she said. “If you suddenly see one, be sure to keep your distance. If you are searching for moose, be prepared with a camera, binoculars or a viewing scope. Perhaps the most important thing to remember is to keep dogs on a leash and far away from moose.”

Moose don’t fear humans, but react instinctively to dogs as if they’re predators and will attack. If your dog comes running back to you, there’s a good chance the moose will too, Romero said.

Additional information is available from  the website at https://cpw.state.co.us/learn/Pages/LivingwithWildlife.aspx.