Elk are present in New Mexico, contributing to the state’s diverse wildlife and natural ecosystems. They are a notable part of New Mexico’s wildlife heritage, offering ecological benefits and recreational opportunities. Their presence reflects successful conservation efforts that have allowed populations to re-establish and thrive across various habitats.
Where Elk Roam in New Mexico
Elk inhabit various environments across New Mexico, primarily favoring mountainous forests, high plateaus, and riparian zones. Their habitat selection is influenced by the availability of food sources like grass, forbs, and woody browse, as well as adequate cover. Deep, cool forests interspersed with meadows provide ideal conditions.
Significant elk populations are found in various mountain ranges and national forests. Known areas include the San Juan Mountains near Chama, the Jemez and Sierra Nacimiento ranges, and Mount Taylor. The Gila National Forest in southwestern New Mexico hosts a large elk population. The Carson National Forest in northern New Mexico and the Santa Fe National Forest also have a strong elk presence.
The Story of New Mexico’s Elk
Elk were once nearly absent from New Mexico due to unregulated hunting and habitat degradation in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with the native Merriam’s elk subspecies becoming extinct by 1912 and Rocky Mountain elk almost extirpated from the northern part of the state. Restoration efforts began in 1910, with Rocky Mountain elk from the Yellowstone region introduced to New Mexico. Reintroductions continued through the 1960s, gradually rebuilding the state’s elk population.
By 1934, the population recovered to approximately 4,000 elk, growing to an estimated 72,000 by 1999. Recent estimates indicate a healthy and stable to slightly increasing trend, with approximately 104,000 elk across New Mexico as of 2023-2024. The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish monitors these herds using aerial helicopter surveys and hunter harvest reports to understand herd health.
Observing and Hunting Elk in New Mexico
For observing elk, certain areas and times increase the likelihood of sightings. Elk are often seen in higher elevations during warmer months, moving to lower elevations in winter as snow deepens. Dawn and dusk are prime viewing times. During the rut (mating season) in September and October, bull elk can be heard bugling. The Valle Vidal in the Carson National Forest and the Valles Caldera National Preserve are popular locations, with the latter home to one of the largest elk herds in the state.
Elk hunting in New Mexico is a managed activity, contributing to the state’s economy. The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish manages hunting through a lottery system for public lands, with private land licenses available. Between 2017 and 2021, an average of over 37,000 licenses were sold annually, resulting in substantial harvests. This regulated hunting provides opportunities and serves as a management tool to maintain sustainable population levels.
Protecting Elk in New Mexico
The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF) manages and conserves the state’s elk populations. They implement science-based management, including monitoring herd health, setting sustainable hunting quotas, and regulating license allocations. This includes dividing licenses between public draw and the Elk Private Land Use System (EPLUS), which incentivizes private landowners to manage their property for elk habitat.
Conservation efforts also involve habitat preservation and enhancement. Organizations like the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation work with landowners and agencies to protect important elk winter and summer ranges and migration corridors. These efforts ensure elk continue to have access to necessary forage, water, and cover, contributing to their long-term viability.