One of the wonders of North American wildlife can be experienced during the dawn of an autumn day in elk country. As clouds lighten from gray to pink and mountains begin to glow, the bugling of a bull elk resonates across a valley. People who witness such scenes seldom forget the experience.
Elk are one of the most popular animals in North America, and people flock to parks and other locations to see them. Their dollars enhance local economies from Pennsylvania to California, especially during the autumn mating season when elk are most visible and behaving in their most spectacular fashion.
Elk are also often easy to see in the winter, because they are in locations that are usually more accessible to people. But this isn't always a good time to look for them because human activities can stress elk. However, you can view elk in a few places such as Jackson, Wyoming, and the Hardware Ranch in Utah, where elk are accustomed to people in winter.
At other times of year, elk are notoriously hard to find. They can be quiet and elusive, blending into their surroundings. Hunters return with tales of tracking phantom bulls -- some people even live with elk on their property and never see the animals. If you are interested in locating elk, you can begin by checking the elk range map and then contacting the appropriate state wildlife agencies for suggestions. You can also refer to regional wildlife viewing guides. When you are ready to venture into the field, review "Finding Elk."
Whether we see them or not, our world seems richer because elk are part of it. People throughout North America are working hard to ensure that elk remain a part of our lives now and in the future.
Elk Watching Tips & Signs of Elk
- Leave pets at home.
- Always observe from a distance. Use binoculars and spotting scopes.
- Talk in whispers and minimize sharp sounds such as clicking cameras.
- Never come between a cow and calf.
- Stay clear of bulls during rutting season; never come between a bull and a group of cows, or two bulls challenging each other.
- If an animal is aware of you and remains calm, don't hide -- stay in full view and move casually. (Quick or furtive movements signal a threat to most wildlife.)
- If an elk becomes alert or nervous, and begins to move away, you are too close -- back off.
- Behave like a guest in their wild home -- try not to bother them.