Jasper National Park in Alberta, Canada is home to some of the biggest bull elk in North America. During the yearly mating season known as the rut the bulls are much more aggressive as they compete for dominance and the opportunity to mate with females. The rut occurs from late August through mid-October, peaking in late September to early October.
Visitors to Jasper National Park are asked to remain extra vigilant during the rut because although they might not appear threatening, elk can be easily agitated and attack without warning. Such was the case for this tourist who pulled off the road to take pictures of a massive elk as it drank from a stream. The man caught the elk’s attention and was so fixated on his phone that he didn’t recognize the telltale direct stare and flattened ears that indicated it perceived a threat and was preparing to charge.
Approaching elk during any season is dangerous but doing so during the fall mating season is particularly perilous. Jasper is explicit with their warnings about the elk rut:
“During rutting season, bull elk will attack anything that comes too close to them or their mates.”
Related
Jasper National Park Guideline To Safely Viewing Elk:
The key to safe wildlife viewing is giving elk and other animals the space they need. For elk, we recommend at least 30 meters. Photograph the animal in its natural environment or use a telephoto lens rather than moving closer to the animal. Do not stalk or follow elk into the bush, nor try enticing them with food or by simulating animal calls. And while it might be temping, taking a selfie with wildlife is dangerous; never put people (especially children) at risk by posing them with wildlife.
How to avoid an elk encounter:
- Stay 30 metres (three bus lengths) away from all elk.
- Travel in groups and keep everyone together, with children within arm’s reach. Carry pepper spray and consider a visual deterrent like a walking stick or umbrella.
- Dogs must be on leash and under control. Elk often view dogs as potential predators and may charge at or attack them. Consider leaving your dog at home if you are not willing to keep it on a leash at all times.
- During calving season, avoid lone female elk and lone calves. Walk in open areas rather than forested trails to avoid unexpected encounters with female elk or calves.
- During rutting season, never stand or park your car between a male and the females, you may be attacked.
If you are unable to avoid an elk encounter:
- Act dominant.
- Raise your arms or flap a jacket to make yourself appear larger.
- Maintain eye contact and move away.
- Seek protection behind a tree or vehicle.
- Contact encounters are rare. If you’re knocked down, get up and move away. Do not play dead!