Estes Park warns residents to use caution during elk calving season

The Town of Estes Park is urging people to stay alert and avoid known elk calving areas as the spring season gets underway.

According to a news release issued May 27, female elk, or cows, can become highly protective of their calves during calving season. The town said the birds sanctuary along the Lake Estes Trail and the Stanley Park area are common places for births, though calving can occur anywhere.

Officials said people should obey any trail-closed signs and take another route if a trail is closed. The release also advised residents to be watchful in neighborhoods, saying people have been injured at home by stepping outside and unknowingly getting between a cow elk and her calf.

The town said safe wildlife viewing means keeping a safe distance and being aware of surroundings. Residents are also being asked to keep pets on leashes and prevent them from barking at, lunging at or chasing wildlife. Protective elk that are endangering people should be reported to the Estes Park Police Department, which enforces wildlife laws including rules against feeding or harassing wildlife.