Saturday, April 5, 2014

#1770 - On Elk

One of the things I love about living in Northern California
is the variety of wildlife we are able to see and enjoy.
And one of the amazing animals we get to see
during our frequent travels are the Roosevelt elk herds
that live in our area.



You can potentially see elk anywhere along highway 101,
but there are certain areas where you are 
pretty sure to see them.

One of them is just south of Laytonville
before Shamrock Road.  To the left is a valley
and cow pastures, and you can often spot the herd off in the distance.


Another (and probably the best) is around 
the schoolhouse near Stone Lagoon...




We've driven north on many occasions and almost run into the herd
here eating by the side of the road...
Including this big male watching out over
his herd of ladies...


Look at the rack on that one...!


Isn't he amazing...?

Depending on the time of the year,
you can sometimes catch the herd along Hwy 20
heading west from I-5.
But you have to look quick because the herd
is usually on the side of the hill, or in the ravines
and can be difficult to see.


When you do see them up close
you just have to be in awe of their sheer size and majesty...


Why hello there...!

2013 A to Z Challenge Post:



6 comments:

betty said...

That is interesting to have elk where you live, Veronica. I don't know why I always just associate them with Yellowstone. They are beautiful!

betty

Jeanie said...

An interesting post today Veronica. It must be wonderful to be able to see nature in its own environment.

Tami Von Zalez said...

Hello fellow AtoZ'er and Californian!

Just discovered your blog and have got you on my Feedly now.

Pop by and give me a visit some time.

www.thriftshopcommando.blogspot.com

Ermie said...

Beautiful creatures! :-)

Aditi said...

Wow you see them in the natural surroundings, so easily. Great! Man and wild can coexist peacefully!! :)

Donna Amis Davis said...

That is so awesome! I've seen elk in Colorado but not in California. They are majestic animals, and I'm happy to hear they are thriving up north there.
Donna On Palawan @ Quintessential San Diego From A to Z

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