Charging Moose Shot and Killed Near Victor, Montanans Warned About Rutting Season

HAMILTON, Mont. (AP) — In the wake of a moose being shot and killed after charging a man walking his dog, wildlife officials are warning Montana residents to be wary of moose due to rutting season.

The Ravalli Republic reports (http://bit.ly/1GSWMlc ) that a man and his girlfriend decided to take their dog for a walk on a popular trail near Victor a few weeks ago when a moose spotted them. Wildlife officials say the dog ran for it, but the man tripped while backing away. As he fell he fired multiple rounds into the charging moose.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Warden Sergeant Aaron Berg says moose can be incredibly dangerous, especially in the fall rutting season. He suggests residents don't let their dogs run off leash, which can agitate moose.