p.1 #1 · Why Does the Elk Stand in the Middle of the River?
Okay - its an easy question but as I was driving today I saw an elk in the middle of the river. I pulled over and thought - thats odd - why does he not cross.
And then realized I was witnessing a wolf attack on the elk. The elk was avoiding being eaten by a wolf by standing in the middle of the river.
I watched for a while and the elk moved off into the trees and then the wolf crossed the river to chase him.
The elk then came back out to stand in the river again.
And this pattern repeated.
After one bolt in to the trees I did not see them for a while, so I started walking with my 600 to see whether I could see them in an opening.
Of course, the wolf came out to greet me and we looked each other over. I had my bear spray on for emotional support. We looked at each other for awhile and then the elk moved back into the water and they they both ran off down the river.
I suspect that the elk will not survive the day. He has lots of bite marks and it must take its toll to stand in the cold river.
Anyway here are my best shots of the morning.
1-5 of 11
1 The Elk in the River - Notice the multiple wounds
2 The wolf appears to watch the elk in the River
3 The wolf gives me the - don't get involved look
4 The Chase goes on and on in and out of the river
p.1 #8 · Why Does the Elk Stand in the Middle of the River?
Wonderful Scott!!! I agree the wolf looking at you is my favourite as well. As far as the whole situation goes -- wolf's gotta eat too, just part of the natural order of things.
It was a privilege that you got to witness this event and thanks for sharing it with all of us!!!
p.1 #18 · Why Does the Elk Stand in the Middle of the River?
Awesome shots! Kinda on topic, I saw a nature show several weeks ago it was in Yellowstone IIRC. But a Bull Elk was being pursued by a wolf pack, and he did the same thing to protect himself from the wolfs.
Jeff
p.1 #20 · Why Does the Elk Stand in the Middle of the River?
eyelaser: I agree - nature not a fun event. I am glad I am human. Glad you liked the pictures. Much appreciated. Scott
arbitrage: Glad you like the set and 6 in particular. It was a thrilling morning. I was a little worried when he stopped to stare at me but not so much that I could not take a picture Thanks for the feedback. Much appreciated. Scott
can0nfan2379: Glad you like 6. It really was a privilege. Reminds me to stop even for the lowly elk because odd behavior usually means a bear or a wolf. Thanks for the feedback. Much appreciated. Scott
probishaw: Glad you like the sequence. Its always tough to catch these activities because I get in a hurry and the events unfold rapidly. Usually I curse myself for overexposing or underexposing or too much cropping because of the wrong lens. Thanks for the feedback. Much appreciated. Scott
