As the spring season takes hold in Idaho, the state’s elk population (approximately 120,000 animals) migrate from lower elevation winter ranges to mid and upper elevations to access fresh nutrient rich forage. This annual migration closely follows the receding snow line as the elk seek valuable calories to replenish their bodies after a long winter.
Elk primarily graze on new grasses this time of year but if a manmade food source presents itself, these hungry animals will take advantage of it. That instinct to regain body weight is likely what led to this animal getting it’s head stuck in a grain feed bag during the month of April in St. Maries, Idaho.
Luckily for the elk, two experienced outdoorsmen came across the distressed animal while walking through the woods and bravely came to its assistance. Blindfolded by the feed bag, the elk couldn’t see the man as he quietly approached the animal and he managed to rip the bag off its head in one swift motion.
While approaching wild elk is highly discouraged in almost every outdoor scenario imaginable, these men were fully aware of the inherent dangers of their actions and made a snap decision on behalf of an animal in need. There is no telling how long this elk would have anguished with its head stuck in the feed bag had these men not stepped in and helped. It should be noted that cow elk are especially fierce and protective around their calves in the spring and anyone encountering elk should always maintain a minimum 25 yard distance.