The Elk Who Stopped Traffic

Elk were released into the Great Smoky National Park in 2001 to help preserve their species. During our trip there last fall, I had hoped we would see a few of them- and we did...

During our drive from Gatlinburg to Cherokee, my hubby said, "I see something moving ahead". As we drew closer, we realized it was Elk. They were coming down from the mountains through the forest, looking to graze in the open fields across the road. The bull elk was huge and made it known that HE was in charge. He stopped dead center in the road then turned and waited for the does to make it across the road. When they caught up with him, he let out a loud squealing sound, often call "bugling"...the mating call of the bull elk.

Leader of the pack

He is patiently waiting...

for his groupies to cross the road

He lets out an ear-piercing rebel yell

and watches over the does as they graze in the open field

It's clear who's the boss, isn't it?  :)  This was our first time to see Elk in the national park since their release and I was grateful that we just happened to be at the right place, at the right time.  

Linked with Eileen on Saturday's Critters

Thanks, Eileen for being a super host for this fun meme!