Wyoming hosts a significant and thriving elk population. The state’s diverse landscapes provide ample habitat, supporting one of the largest elk herds in North America. Elk are a prominent feature of Wyoming’s wildlife.
Elk Presence and Population in Wyoming
Elk have a historical presence across Wyoming, though their numbers significantly declined in the 1800s and early 1900s, with populations largely confined to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Efforts to restore their numbers began in the early 20th century, including the establishment of the National Elk Refuge in 1912 and transplanting elk from Yellowstone to other parts of the state in the 1960s. These conservation measures have allowed elk populations to recover and expand throughout their native range.
Today, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) estimates the state’s elk population at approximately 109,000 animals. Over the past two decades, elk populations in Wyoming have thrived, with an increasing trend. While some herds are at or above management objectives, this success also presents management challenges in certain areas, particularly concerning private land.
Prime Elk Habitats and Distribution
Elk can be found throughout Wyoming in diverse environments. Their distribution spans from the northwestern corner of the state, including Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, to the Red Desert, Black Hills, and agricultural fields in southeastern Wyoming. These animals prefer habitats that offer both cover and forage, such as forests, meadows, and mountainous regions.
The National Elk Refuge in Jackson Hole is an important wintering ground, providing sanctuary for an average of 7,500 elk each winter across its nearly 25,000 acres of meadows and marshes. Elk in Wyoming undertake seasonal migrations, moving to higher elevations in the summer and descending to lower, more sheltered areas during the winter months. This migratory behavior allows them to access optimal foraging grounds and escape deep snow.
Managing and Coexisting with Wyoming Elk
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department plays a key role in managing elk populations through conservation efforts. These efforts aim to maintain healthy herds while addressing concerns such as overpopulation in specific areas and potential damage to private lands. The department employs strategies like habitat improvement and monitoring to ensure the long-term well-being of elk.
For individuals hoping to observe elk, it is important to practice responsible wildlife viewing. Maintaining a safe distance from animals, especially during calving season or when males are rutting, is important for both human and elk safety. Observing elk from a distance with binoculars or telephoto lenses allows for appreciation without disturbance. The presence of elk contributes to Wyoming’s ecosystem and supports wildlife tourism, drawing visitors to experience these animals in their natural settings.