The elk mating season, or rut, takes place in Banff National Park during September and October. Although they are a marvel to watch and listen to, bull elk become extremely aggressive protecting their harems during the rut. Male elk may charge without warning at anyone and anything that gets too close.

How to stay safe during the rut:

• The key to safely viewing elk is to respect their wildness and need for space.
• Keep your distance from elk. Stay back at least 30 metres (3 bus lengths)
• Never get between a male and the females.
• Keep your dog on a leash.

If you are not sure what an elk looks like, visit this photo gallery for this animal and many others found in the Canadian Rockies: http://www.rocky-peak.com/summer-photo-gallery-animals.html

Please report all sightings of elk in the Banff townsite and any conflicts between people and elk to park wardens at 762-1470 (24 hour Dispatch). Park wardens have resumed their fall aversive conditioning program on elk found in town to keep the animals wary and to reduce their chances of becoming habituated to urban areas.