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Hiking through History by Teresa Burton

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Conservation
Map of Trails (resolution 1540x942x96dpi - 70,029 bytes)

In January of 1993, the Ministry of Environment transplanted a herd of Roosevelt Elk cows and calves to the San Juan Valley. Once an historic range for elk, they have not lived here for many years. Since their reintroduction, there have been frequent sightings and hoof prints in many areas surrounding these trails. Listening to elk is a wonderful experience. The elk seem to have thrived. There are apparently at least three herds now.

They are most often seen in the meadows and near the river. Be aware that a cow elk with a young calf is very protective and may respond aggressively to your presence. If any of the young calfs of January are bulls, their first year of antler growth will begin in May and last until September, usually single spikes from 10 to 24 inches long. These sightings will be of interest to conservation officers and local residents who can pass this information on. The safety of the elk can depend upon our assistance.

If you see anything out of the ordinary please contact, toll free; The Fish and Wildlife Hotline: 1-800-663-9453

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