Elk NetworkStay Away from Rutting Bull Elk, Pickup Pays Price

General | September 25, 2018

The pickup sat at a stoplight waiting for the light to change. A nearby bull elk felt it invaded its space so it took exception, charged and gouged four holes in the side of it.

It’s mating season for elk across North America, a time when bulls become aggressive as they seek to fight off foes and grow their harems of cow. Officials at Jasper National Park, located about 190 miles northwest of Calgary in Alberta, Canada, posted the photo and this on its Facebook page:

Why should you stay in your car when viewing elk during the rut?  

These four holes are a very good reason. These holes were made by a charging bull elk when the truck stopped at a traffic light this past weekend. No one was hurt, but this is a great reminder about the continuing elk rut and the need to give wildlife space.

Bull elk are extremely dangerous at this time of year. Be sure to stay in your car and keep a safe distance from wild animals.

Tourists in Yellowstone National Park recently got too close to dueling elk and one man paid a price for it by being knocked to the ground. (It could have been much, much worse.)

(Photo source: Parks Canada)