Renowned wildlife photographer Rod Young has developed a close bond with the bull elk in Prince Albert National Park, particularly showing care towards their well-being. In early October, Young noticed one of the bull elk facing a distressing situation. Describing the incident, Young mentioned that the elk had gotten entangled in what seemed to be some kind of netting or cargo netting, possibly a discarded hammock.
After capturing images and a short video of the distressed elk, Young promptly alerted Parks Canada staff. Acting resource conservation manager Tom Perry explained that the Parks Canada team located the elk on Kingsmere Road and successfully administered a tranquilizing agent to the animal. Once the elk was safely sedated, the team removed the netting, freeing the animal from its entanglement.
Following the rescue operation, the elk was monitored for about 40 minutes while its vital signs were checked. Upon regaining consciousness, the elk was observed getting up and walking away unharmed. Perry highlighted another similar incident where Parks staff rescued a bull elk caught in fencing, emphasizing the importance of their role in preventing wildlife crises.
Perry warned about the dangers posed by materials like snow fencing, ropes, and netting to wildlife, stressing the need for responsible disposal or avoidance of such items. He urged the public to be mindful of their surroundings and refrain from using unnecessary materials that could harm local wildlife.
Young expressed relief that the elk was freed shortly after his report, emphasizing the severity of the entanglement. Perry discussed the unique presence of a herd of 60 to 80 elk in the Waskesiu townsite, known for frequenting various locations in the area.
Perry stressed the importance of coexisting with wildlife, advising people to maintain a safe distance of at least 30 meters from wild animals, particularly elk. He cautioned that during the fall mating season, bull elk can exhibit aggressive behavior and recommended caution when observing wildlife.
While encouraging wildlife observation and photography, Parks Canada advises against approaching wildlife to ensure the safety of both animals and visitors.