Bull elk rescued after falling into Bow River

A bull elk that fell through the ice and into the freezing Bow River in Banff National Park has been rescued.

The bull elk had fallen through the ice of the river Wednesday and was struggling for some time before passersby saw him and called for help.

bull elk currently in the bow river in #banff please give parks canada team room to help. pic.twitter.com/3kQ4J19KOO

— Fernie Mariam (@FernieMariam) March 27, 2024

Parks Canada said in an email to CityNews that a rescue team responded to reports of an elk that fell through ice at the Bow near the pedestrian bridge in the park.

They arrived with chainsaws to cut the ice to help the animal break away and make its way to shore.

The moment was captured in a series of videos making the rounds on X by user Fernie Mariam.

very cooperative bull elk! great response by parks canada team pic.twitter.com/YcderFcZMb

— Fernie Mariam (@FernieMariam) March 27, 2024

After a few attempts, the elk was free and appeared uninjured.

“The elk was able to stand up with a little bit of encouragement and left the area,” Parks Canada’s email reads.

“The safety of staff and wildlife is a priority and Parks Canada is pleased that this incident has a positive ending.”

A crowd gathered to watch the spectacle and cheered enthusiastically once it became clear the elk would be fine.

Meanwhile, one of the rescuers fell into the water with him but was okay.

Although tired from the ordeal, the elk appeared uninjured as it walked away.

and he’s out! yay! pic.twitter.com/K8BCbFg903

— Fernie Mariam (@FernieMariam) March 27, 2024

Parks Canada says that animals falling through ice can happen in the spring and fall as a natural occurrence, and when it does, to not attempt to rescue them or interfere in any way.

Rangers say to call Banff Dispatch at 403-762-1470 instead.

In addition, animals like elk should be given a distance of 30 metres.

“Thin ice is extremely dangerous. As the temperatures begin to rise, ice on Banff National Park waterways will begin to thaw,” Parks Canada said.

“At this time of year, visitors and residents are encouraged to stay away from ice for personal safety reasons, as ice conditions can change rapidly.”