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'Protective' elk mothers prompt public warning

BANFF – An elk warning was issued to residents and visitors in Banff National Park after mother elk have "aggressively charged people in defence of their young" during calving season.
Wildlife managers are warning the public to be wary of female elk that may have calves with them at this time of year.
Wildlife managers are warning the public to be wary of female elk that may have calves with them at this time of year.

BANFF – An elk warning was issued to residents and visitors in Banff National Park after mother elk have "aggressively charged people in defence of their young" during calving season.

The Parks Canada warning is in place from June 7-30 due to protective elk cows displaying defensive behaviour in and near the Banff townsite.

Parks Canada recommends to stay 30 metres away from all elk; avoid lone female elk because they separate from the herd for calving and may have calves nearby; walk on open roads rather than forest trails to avoid stumbling on mothers and calves; keep children within arm’s reach and always keep dogs on a leash; and travel in groups and carry bear spray.


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