Not only is Missoula, Montana, home of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation but it is also home to wild-free ranging elk that live in the mountains just above the city.
Mount Jumbo, a popular destination for hikers and wildlife watchers, closes each winter so animals will not be bothered and can take advantage of forage on the winter range which can be challenging during the frigid months. The City of Missoula is seeking citizen scientists to keep an eye on elk activity and movement on the mountain from December 1 to May 1.
“The elk spotters’ observations kind of tell us more about what spots the elk use, where they like to hang out, and where they can be found throughout the winter, which helps the city and Montana FWP manage the population make sure they’re using the resource at a healthy level. a really good indicator for what sort of health we do expect to find among other wildlife,” Peter Whitney, Missoula Conservation Lands Program specialist, told KPAX-TV.
Spotters can download maps, data sheets and instructions to report findings online.
If interested in helping, go here for more information.
(Photo credit: Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation)