Elk Herds – Near Benezett, Pennsylvania
If you are someone that enjoys nature and want to see a herd of elk then this may be the place for you to visit.
Although elk were completely eliminated from Pennsylvania by 1867 the Rocky Mountain elk were reintroduced from 1913 through 1926 and now number more than 500 head.
These social animals can be seen in their natural habitat along many roadways in the area encompassed by the 227 square mile elk range. The primary routes are 120, 255, and 555. As with most wild animals the best time to see the herds are at dawn and dusk.
The cows (females) live just north of Benezette and can weigh up to 500 pounds. They bear most of their calves from the end of May to mid-June. The bulls form "bachelor" groups and live primarily near Saint Marys except during the September and October Breeding season when they will travel to mate. These bulls can weigh as much as 800 pounds.
You will certainly enjoy the bugle call of the elk during the autumn. It is especially neat on a moonlight night with the sounds ranging from grunts to whistles, screams and roars. It is said that it sounds similar to a musical flute.
The Dent’s Run viewing area is located near Benezette off of Route 555. Starting at the Benezette Hotel, travel north along Winslow HIll Road for 3.5 miles. You can park there and take photographs but don’t even think about feeding the elk, it is against the law!
No related posts.
About Editor
Comments