Traffic jams are a common sight, but what’s not so common is them being caused by an angry elk ramming cars! From afar these animals are romantic woodland creatures, but when their huge antlers threaten to break your car window they are suddenly much less cute.
Angry Elk Ramming Cars
The video captures a bull elk during its mating season, using its large antlers to hit cars, which could potentially lead to a really dangerous situation if it breaks a car window.
Safety First
To ensure the safety of the elk (and themselves), the cars have to significantly slow down which causes a major traffic jam on this busy highway. That being said, we should remember that we’re the ones who are trespassing on the elk’s natural habitat.
The Purpose of Antlers During the Breeding Season
Elk antlers are not just for show; they play a critical role during the breeding season. Bull elks use their antlers to demonstrate dominance and to catch the attention of females. These impressive structures are used in battles against rival males. Strength and stamina decide the victor, and, consequently, the right to mate.
Aggression
The heightened aggression and display of power seen in the Estes Park incident are typical behaviors of elks during this period.
Watch the video here!
How Strong Are Their Antlers?
Elk antlers are incredibly strong and capable of withstanding intense combat. Made of bone, these antlers can grow up to an inch per day during the summer! In other words, it’s one of the fastest-growing animal tissues.
Huge
Mature bull elks can have antlers spanning over four feet, and weigh up to 40 pounds. This strength and size enable them to engage in fierce battles and, as seen in the Estes Park video, even challenge large objects like vehicles.
Elks in Estes Park
Estes Park is renowned for its thriving elk population, proving its successful wildlife management and conservation efforts. From the initial reintroduction of around 49 elk in 1913, the population has grown substantially. Today, Estes Park and the surrounding Rocky Mountain National Park are home to an estimated 600 to 800 elk.
Are Bull Elks Dangerous?
While not typically aggressive towards humans, bull elks can be dangerous during the breeding season. Their increased aggression, driven by the need to assert dominance and mate, can lead to unpredictable behavior – as seen in the video.
Threatened
The angry bull elk ramming a car illustrates their strength and potential for harm, especially if they feel threatened or provoked.
The Video
Watch the full video here!
Angry Elk Ramming Cars: Conclusion
The video from Estes Park serves as a powerful reminder of the beauty and challenges of living alongside wildlife. Understanding elk behavior, especially during the breeding season, is crucial for ensuring the safety of both humans and animals.
Next in Animal News
Thank you for reading this story about the angry elk ramming cars! Enjoy some more elk stories here:
- Gorilla vs. Elk
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- Wedding Vows Interrupted by Bear Killing Moose
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