Bulletins

THE ELK CALVING SEASON HAS BEGUN

Elk calving season May 1st 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 female 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.