Don't you love this photo? Busy little fellow adding some padding to his nest for Winter.
Elk were reintroduced into the Smokies in 2001 and it has been a wonderful experience for us natives to see and learn about their habits. The photo above is of a handsome full grown bull elk with one of his cows. This time of the year is known as "the rut" and bulls can be heard bugling to attract cows. Later, he will drop that gorgeous antler rack and next Spring he will start a new one.
The elk are seen in Cataloochee Valley, around and near the Oconoluftee Visitor's Center in Cherokee and they have even roamed as far as Maggie Valley.
In a couple of weeks it will look like this in the Smokies. Color has already begun to show so this will be an early season.
Keep your eyes pealed. These fellows will be around for a while yet before they hibernate for Winter.
Fairs and festivals abound throughout the Fall.
Come see us!
Come see us!
