GSMNP Reintroduction of Elk

hummingbird · 12-13-2011, 06:41 PM

In 2001, the Great Smokey Mountains National Park biologists reintroduced Elk to the park. The Elk have now become self sustaining. The biologists say that the mama Elk have become better at protecting their calves and that the biggest problem they have is a parasitic brain worm and a few black bears who are the main predators of the herd. They have been taking the few bears who are attracted to the elk and removing them to another part of the park. I'm really glad the Elk are back.

Bojib · 12-13-2011, 06:58 PM

That's pretty neat. The re-released Elk in this area (Southeastern Kentucky) around the same time. Our herds here are doing really well also.

CatsEye · 12-13-2011, 08:14 PM

Hmmmm. Wonder if they will be having elk season soon?

I doubt it but hopefully it won't be many more years before they decide they have too many elk and decide they want us to hunt them.

ppine · 12-14-2011, 01:13 PM

The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation has been instrumental in restoring elk herds to their former ranges. Unfortunately the eastern elk is extinct. The animals at Smoky Mtn. are likely descendants of the Rocky Mtn. elk herd from Yellowstone. Hunting is not likely in a National Park, but might happen on other lands. We have a growing and huntable population of elk in Nevada believe it or not. They are magnificent animals that people love to see. They are also delicious to eat. Elk are hardy animals that migrate long distances easily and can really fill up the habitat. They compete more with cattle than they do with deer. Some people in the East are strongly opposed to their reintroduction.