Alberta Fish and Wildlife warns of aggressive elk in Canmore area

Alberta Fish and Wildlife officers said Friday elk were seen acting aggressively in the area of Canmore, and are reminding people to be cautious around them.

Officers say elk are frequently seen around the areas of Kananaskis and Canmore, and elk calving season is between mid-May to early July.

Fish and Wildlife officers add female elk are very protective of their young and will act aggressively if they feel threatened.

Signs that elk are agitated include staring with flattened ears and raised rump hair, curled lips, grinding teeth, and charging and kicking.

Fish and wildlife officers have received reports of aggressive elk in the Canmore area. Remember to be especially cautious around elk and their young in areas where they're commonly sighted, such as Kananaskis and Canmore. Mid-May to early July is elk calving season in AB. 1/5

— Alberta Fish and Wildlife Enforcement (@FWEnforcement) May 27, 2022

Fish and Wildlife officers advise the following to avoid encounters with elk:

• Travel in groups
• Always stay at least 30 metres away from elk
• Avoid taking pets into areas where elk are calving
• If you must take your pets/dogs, keep them on leash at all times.
• Carry bear spray

If you are approached by an elk:

• Act dominant by raising your arms or a big object
• Maintain eye contact
• Never turn your back and run
• If possible, climb a tree or keep a large object between you and the elk
• Back away slowly out of the area
• If you are knocked down or fall, get up and try to find cover
• Do NOT play dead.

For more tips on how to deal with wildlife in urban areas, you can visit the Alberta government’s website.