Bulletins

Elk calving season May 15 to June 30

Protective mothers will aggressively protect their newborns by kicking and charging at people

How do I avoid an elk encounter?

• Stay 30 meters away from all elk;
• Avoid lone female elk, they separate from the herd for calving and may have calves nearby;
• Walk on open roads rather than forest trails to avoid stumbling upon females elk or calves;
• Keep children within arms reach and always keep dogs on a leash;
• Travel in groups and carry a walking stick, pepper spray or umbrella;

What should I do if I can’t avoid an elk encounter?

• Act dominant if an elk gets too close;
• Seek protection behind a tree or vehicle;
• Raise your arms or flap a jacket to make yourself appear larger;
• Maintain eye contact and move away;
• Contact encounters are rare – if knocked down get up and move away. Do not play dead!

Report all elk encounters: 780-852-6155