Observations of the use of buildings by free-ranging Elk, Cervus canadensis, in Prince Albert National Park, Saskatchewan

Authors

  • Ryan K. Brook Department of Animal and Poultry Science and the Indigenous Land Management Institute, College of Agriculture and Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan, 51 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5A8

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.22621/cfn.v129i3.1729

Keywords:

Elk behaviour, Cervus canadensis, Elk, habituation, buildings, Prince Albert National Park, Saskatchewan

Abstract

Elk (Cervus canadensis) are habituated to humans and associated buildings in many national parks in North America. During the summers of 2012–2014, observations were made of Elk standing on the decks of cabins and entering campground cook shelters in and around the town of Waskesiu in east-central Prince Albert National Park, Saskatchewan. These appear to be the first documented observations of Elk entering buildings intentionally. The reason for this behaviour is likely a combination of the animals seeking areas safe from wolves, thermal cover, and relief from biting insects.

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Published

2015-10-28

Issue

Vol. 129 No. 3 (2015)

Section

Notes

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