Fall is right around the corner and that means the elk that populate Alberta’s well-known parks are approaching the peak of their mating season.
Parks Canada is urging people visiting Waterton Lakes National Park to be mindful of the animals’ behaviour.
Just after dawn and right before dusk, park users will likely see bull elk showing off for the females, working hard to keep them close by, and warding off any males who may pose a threat to their mating opportunity.
Wildlife ecologist for Waterton Lakes Rob Found says it’s all part of the reproductive process.
“The objective of the males is to have as many females as possible collected into what is called a harem,” said Found.
Get breaking National news
“By controlling this harem, which could have as many as 30, 40, or 50 individual females in it, they get more mating opportunities for themselves.”
Found says this behaviour can be dangerous to nearby humans.
“During the rut, male elk can become more aggressive,” said Found. “They’re certainly more aggressive towards each other, but they can also express some of that aggression towards people as well.”
- Hundreds of public sector workers warned their jobs could be cut: union
- Carney, Trump and Sheinbaum talk trade in Washington at FIFA World Cup draw
- ‘Patients get relief’: Researchers recommending nerve blockers to treat migraines
- Colleen Jones remembered: Funeral, celebration of life honours famed curler, broadcaster
Parks Canada advises park users keep 30 metres away from elk during mating, keep dogs on leashes, and never get between a male and female. More safety tips on how to stay safe can be found here.
Found says people viewing the elk rut should stay in their vehicles, but not just for their own safety.
“It’s the reproductive cycle all the way from mating to having their calves next spring, so it’s very important for the health of the population that they can exhibit all of their mating behaviours appropriately, and free of human disturbance.”
Elk rutting season typically occurs from the beginning of September until mid-October.
Comments