8-year-old girl attacked by 'aggressive' cow elk while riding bike in Colorado

An 8-year-old child was attacked by a cow elk in Colorado Thursday afternoon, wildlife officials say.

According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the victim was riding her bike in Estes Park, a town about 65 miles from Denver, when a female cow elk charged in her direction. The animal attacked the girl by stomping on her several times.

The child was transported to a local hospital and later discharged. She is "recovering from her injuries," Area Wildlife Manager Jason Duetsch said in a statement.

“This is an unusual and unfortunate situation where a young girl was playing outside, far from the calf, and a cow elk became aggressive to protect her newborn,” Duetsch added. "While it is a natural reaction for cow elk to be very defensive during calving season, it is not often they hurt someone, especially a child.”

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Park officials warn residents to be aware of 'aggressive' elks in area

Following the incident, a wildlife officer went to the area where the attack occurred and spotted a cow elf with a young calf.

The agency said the elk started to become "aggressive," prompting the officer to fire a non-lethal bean bag, and the elk’s behavior dissipated, according to the Fort Collins Coloradoan, part of USA TODAY Network.

The officer observed the scene for several hours before returning the next day "to transport the calf to the CPW Health Lab, where veterinarians and wildlife specialists will care for the newborn."

A Colorado Parks and Wildlife spokesperson told local news that officials will study the animal's behavior.

Officials placed signs around the area, warning residents about the cow elk's behavior and to keep their pets on a leash during this calving season in Colorado. The cow elk usually become more hostile during the late spring into summertime, especially to protect their young from anything the animal perceives as threatening.

Wildlife officials said conflicts with people are common in spring when cow elk and cow moose have their young nearby. Officials recommend giving these animals a wide berth, never approach wildlife with young and to leave young wildlife alone if you find them. It is not unusual to find calves and fawns alone, as the mother may temporarily leave them to find food.

Animal attacks on humans

The number of attacks on humans by elk in Colorado was not available.

However, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, from 1990 to 2023, there have been 88 attacks by black bears on humans, three of which were fatal, and 28 attacks by mountain lions on humans, three of which were fatal.

Since 2006, there have been 21 attacks by moose on humans, with one fatal attack, and nearly all occurred with a dog or dogs present.

Taylor Ardrey is a Trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at tardrey@gannett.com.