Virginia is home to a growing population of elk, a large mammal successfully reintroduced after many years of absence. Their return marks a notable conservation achievement, allowing residents and visitors the opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat.
A Brief History of Elk in Virginia
Elk historically roamed across eastern North America, with their range extending throughout Virginia. By the late 1800s, the species faced significant decline across the eastern United States.
Unsustainable hunting practices and widespread habitat alteration contributed to their eventual disappearance from the state. The last known wild elk from Virginia’s original population was killed in Clarke County in 1855. Several attempts were made to reintroduce elk to Virginia between 1913 and 1916, but these efforts largely failed due to a lack of suitable habitat and understanding of elk ecology.
The Return of Elk to Virginia
The modern effort to bring elk back to Virginia began with initiatives by the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation in the 1990s. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) spearheaded a reintroduction project between 2012 and 2014. This program involved relocating 71 elk from southeast Kentucky into Buchanan County, Virginia.
The objective of this reintroduction was to establish a self-sustaining elk herd. Habitat management focused on open land habitats created on reclaimed former strip mine lands. These areas provide abundant food resources and suitable cover, which are beneficial for the growing elk population. The success of these efforts led to a thriving herd, estimated at over 250 individuals by September 2020.
Where to Find Elk in Virginia Today
Virginia’s elk population is primarily concentrated in the southwestern part of the state, particularly around Buchanan County. This region, nestled within the mountains of the Cumberland Plateau, offers ideal habitat conditions for the elk. The landscape here combines open grassland areas with nearby forested areas that provide shade and cover.
While Buchanan County remains the core area, elk have begun to expand their range into adjacent counties such as Wise, Dickenson, and Tazewell. Elk have also been observed migrating into Giles County and Breaks Interstate Park, indicating a natural expansion of their territory. This expansion highlights the suitability of the region for elk.
For those interested in observing elk, the DWR has established designated viewing areas in Buchanan County. These locations feature multiple sheltered platforms overlooking managed grassland habitats. These viewing sites provide excellent opportunities to see elk, especially during their most active periods. The prime times for viewing are typically in the early morning and evening. For individuals unable to visit in person, the DWR also operates an “Elk Cam,” a live-streaming webcam that offers a virtual viewing experience.