Love is in the air: Elk rutting season nears end

Near the golf course, the elk are a lot more active, and one bull bellows out several mating calls. The nearby cows, however, don’t appear particularly impressed.

Perry said there’s a common misconception that rutting season is connected to the weather.

“It’s usually right around the autumn equinox and that’s just because it’s a change in daylight that really triggers that rutting period and hormonal changes in the animals.”

He added that the timing is fairly consistent from Saskatchewan to California.

A bull inspects some females on the golf course. (Image Credit: Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

With the elk focused on breeding, their behaviour can be unpredictable. Park staff advise visitors to stay at least 30 metres away and take pictures from the safety of their vehicles. Pets should be kept on a leash at all times, and hikers should remain aware of their surroundings.

With those precautions in mind, Perry said it’s a special time of year and a good opportunity for photography enthusiasts.

“I think its a really good opportunity for people to come here and see elk behaving naturally in their somewhat natural environment,” he said.

Angie Carriere, an avid photographer who spends her summers at the park, captured two bulls battling just outside her cabin this year.

“My heart was just pumping,” she said. “I don’t love the fact in nature animals have to hurt each other but it is reality so to be able to witness it is quite beautiful.”

That same morning, Carriere also captured two bulls in the water, their chorus of mating calls providing a soundtrack for nearby residents.

“It was just one of those sights you have to be nothing but grateful for.”

—

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell

by Nigel Maxwell

Love is in the air: Elk rutting season nears end

What's Trending