Colorado Parks and Wildlife this week tweeted a video compilation showing what can happen when people do not provide elk with adequate space.
It begins with a man and woman – each cradling a small dog – hopping a guard rail and trotting onto a road to escape an elk’s charge.
A jogger appears next and the elk, perceiving a threat, charges the man and forces him into a sprint as he tries to avoid contact.
Mammas are strong & will protect their lil’ ones
Wildlife are protecting & raising their young. Moose, deer and elk with newborn calves and fawns can become aggressive to defend them. What can you do?
It’s simple, GIVE THEM SPACE & LEAVE YOUNG WILDLIFE ALONE pic.twitter.com/4m4Zyn9IIO
— Colorado Parks and Wildlife (@COParksWildlife) June 20, 2023
The elk could’ve easily floored the man. But the animal apparently was just guarding its territory and perhaps nearby calves.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife cautioned Twitter followers:
“Mammas are strong & will protect their lil’ ones.
“Wildlife are protecting & raising their young. Moose, deer and elk with newborn calves and fawns can become aggressive to defend them. What can you do?
“It’s simple, GIVE THEM SPACE & LEAVE YOUNG WILDLIFE ALONE.”
