Approximately 15-20 cows launched an unexpected attack on a jogger along a Colorado trail Tuesday morning.
The jogger found herself surrounded by a small herd of cattle, mostly mothers with their calves, as she tried to protect herself while on the ground, Colorado Hometown Weekly reported. Boulder County Parks and Open Space (BCPOS) rangers responded to a 911 call from an eyewitness.
Meadowlark Trail Closed TRAIL CLOSURE ALERT: The Meadowlark Trail between the Coalton Trailhead and Key Bank is closed because of aggressive cattle in the area. The trail will reopen once it’s safe to do so. pic.twitter.com/Lct9jF1l8S
— BoCo Open Space (@BoulderCountyOS) June 6, 2023
“We have had people feel threatened by the cattle before, which is one of the reasons we put the signs up,” BCPOS Spokesperson, Vivienne Jannatpour, told Hometown Weekly.
The injured jogger was immediately transported to a local hospital, and her condition remains undisclosed at this time. BCPOS ranger, Erin Hartnett, clarified the cows’ behavior was likely caused by them safeguarding their calves. (RELATED: Killer Whale Has Been Leading ‘Coordinated’ Attacks Around Gibraltar, Researchers Believe)
“This time of year they’re just very protective of their calves,” Hartnett told the outlet.
The trail was closed for public safety, and the herd was relocated to a fenced-in pasture. The trail is now reopened to the public, according to Hometown Weekly. Hartnett advised trail users to exercise caution during this period. She recommended keeping dogs leashed and maintaining a safe distance from wildlife encountered on the trail.
TRAIL CLOSURE UPDATE: The Meadowlark Trail is open. The aggressive cattle have been moved from the area. #boco_trails pic.twitter.com/ZbJgQj2bcJ
— BoCo Open Space (@BoulderCountyOS) June 6, 2023
“If they’re in your way – they’re not giving you ground – then back away and don’t continue on your hike,” Harnett told the outlet.