Only males have antlers, which grow in the spring and drop each winter. A dark brown mane, light-brown bodies and white rumps characterize both sexes. Females are called cows, weigh up to 500 pounds, and are only slightly smaller than bulls. Large males, called bulls, can weigh up to 700 pounds and stand five feet at the shoulder. North American Elk ( Cervus canadensis)Įlk are one of the largest members of the deer family. Popular wildlife viewing locations include Moraine Park, Sheep Lakes, along Trail Ridge Road, Horseshoe Park, and Harbison Meadow. Where can I view elk?Įlk can be seen at locations througout Rocky. Park visitors must stay on designated roads or established trails during this time.įishing locations found within these areas along sections of Fall River, Big Thompson River, and Colorado River are closed to all anglers from 5:00 p.m. To help prevent disturbance and harassment of elk during this time, and to enhance elk viewing opportunities for all park visitors, from September 1 to October 31, areas in Horseshoe Park, Moraine Park, Upper Beaver Meadows, Harbison Meadow, and Holzwarth Meadow are closed to all foot travel from 5:00 p.m. Let your friends know that approaching wildlife is illegal in Rocky Mountain National Park and it doesn’t matter if they are doing it to take a photograph. Stay back at least 75 feet (or two bus lengths). When your friends ask, “How close can I get to that elk?" suggest they ask a different question, such as “How far should I stay back?” Let wildlife be wild and observe from a distance. This time is also known as the elk rut! Bull elk can be very aggressive as they protect the cows and young in their herd. During the months of September and October, elk herds are gathering in lower elevation areas for fall mating season.
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