Bulletins

THE ELK CALVING SEASON HAS BEGUN

Elk calving season May 15th to June 30th

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 any incidents to the Resource Conservation office at 403-762-1470.