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Elderly woman attacked by doe in Craig

A mule deer doe with two fawns attacked and injured an 85-year-old woman.

CRAIG, Colo. — Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) officers are investigating a wildlife attack in Craig.

A mule deer doe with two fawns attacked and injured an 85-year-old woman at about 4:30 p.m. Wednesday as the woman was walking her dog within city limits, CPW said in a news release. 

The woman was transported to Craig Hospital with what are described as serious injuries, officers said.

Officers believe the woman and her dog surprised the animal, leading to an unusually aggressive response by the doe.

RELATED: CPW won’t take action after moose attacks man outside of Nederland


CPW said doe attacks are rare but they can happen and they can be serious, especially when the animal is rearing her young.

CPW officers located and captured the doe and her fawns about 8 p.m. Wednesday night. Due to the doe's extremely aggressive behavior, the doe will be put down to protect public safety. The fawns will be taken to a local rehabilitation facility.

Officers said Craig has a large resident mule deer population. They warn residents about the dangers of approaching any wildlife, especially females with offspring.

RELATED: DNA confirms bear killed by CPW officers attacked hiker near Aspen

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