Elk aggression on the rise in Canmore during calving season

Canmore residents and visitors are being asked to take extra caution in the town and on the trails following several reports of female elk aggressively protecting their young.
Alberta Fish and Wildlife Enforcement says the return of elk calving season — from mid-May through early July — has brought with it the potential for dangerous encounters between humans and wildlife.
Female elk are extremely protective of their young and will act defensively when they feel threatened. Signs of agitation include:
- Staring with flattened ears;
- Raised rump hair;
- Curled lips;
- Grinding teeth; and,
- Charging and kicking.
If you're approached by an elk, Alberta Fish and Wildlife Enforcement encourages you to:
- Act dominant by raising your arms or a large object;
- Maintain eye contact with the animal;
- Do no turn your back and run;
- Climb a tree or attempt to stand behind a large object that could prevent the animal from charging;
- Back away slowly; and,
- DO NOT PLAY DEAD. If you fall or are knocked over, quickly return to your feet and try to find cover.
To reduce the likelihood of an elk encounter:
- Travel in groups;
- Avoid taking pets into areas where elk are calving;
- Keep pet on leash at all times; and
- Stay at least 30 metres from any elk you spot.
All visitors to Canmore and the mountain parks are encouraged to carry bear spray and to be aware of how to properly utilize it as a form of protection against wildlife.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Canadians want revenge on Bernardo, but that's not how prison works: ex-official
One of the architects of the law that governs Canada's prison system says it's understandable people want revenge on killer and serial rapist Paul Bernardo, but that's not what the prison system is designed for.

Prince Harry back in court for second day of grilling over U.K. tabloid claims
Prince Harry was back in the witness box at the High Court in London on Wednesday for a second day of grilling over his allegations that British tabloids targeted him with phone-hacking and other unlawful behaviour.
Have questions about the wildfires spreading across Canada? We want to hear from you
Wildfires currently burning across parts of Canada are some of the most severe ever witnessed, and experts say the 'unprecedented' fire season will become the new normal. CTVNews.ca wants to hear from Canadians with questions about wildfires, including their health impacts and how to stay safe.
Bank of Canada to announce interest rate decision this morning
The Bank of Canada is set to announce its interest rate decision this morning as speculation about another rate hike heats up.
Canadian forest fire centre responds to unprecedented wildfire season
With 415 active wildfires across the country as of Tuesday afternoon, and 238 were considered out of control, it has meant long hours for people working at the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre trying to figure out where firefighters and equipment are needed most at any given time.
'An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure': Experts say a national fire service could help battle wildfires
During a record-setting wildfire season, experts say prevention of more disasters is important, citing a Canada-wide fire service could help mitigate blazes.
Pope Francis to undergo intestinal surgery under general anesthesia
Pope Francis went to the hospital Wednesday to undergo abdominal surgery to treat an intestinal blockage, two years after he had 33 centimeters (13 inches) of his colon removed because of an inflammation and narrowing of the large intestine.
Tim Hortons to launch credit card through mobile rewards app
Tim Hortons is launching a credit card that can be used through its mobile app, the latest move into an increasingly competitive rewards space.
5 things to know for Wednesday, June 7, 2023
Special Rapporteur David Johnston will launch foreign interference hearings in July, travellers from 13 more countries are now eligible to visit Canada without a visa, and rent across Canada climbs.