Normal gestation period is approximately 8 ½ months. Twins are a rare occurrence and happen less than one percent of the time. The calves are speckled with spots to complete their natural camouflage. ** To request printed copies the brochures or additional information call (814) 849-5197 or e-mail elk normally give birth to a single calf in late May or early June. The Moore Hill area in Cameron County is a favored viewing spot of local elk enthusiasts. Elk can also be seen along the roadways in the free-roaming herd range located in Elk and Cameron counties. To reach the public viewing area, start at the Benezette Hotel and travel north along Winslow Hill road 3.5 miles. Considered to be the heart of Pennsylvania elk country, the town of Benezette is located along State Route 555 in Elk County. Visitors can easily see the majestic elk in areas of Elk and Cameron counties. The releases in north-central Pennsylvania were successful and the herd now numbers more than 1,400. The reintroduction of elk took place from 1913 through 1926. The elk herd we know today originated from 177 elk that were trapped and transferred to northern areas of Pennsylvania. In 1913 the Pennsylvania Game Commission began reintroducing elk in Pennsylvania. Unregulated hunting and habitat loss were the biggest factors of their demise. By 1867 there were no more elk in Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania Elk Herd – Habitat & HistoryĮlk once freely roamed all over Pennsylvania but the rapid settlement and exploitation by early immigrants threatened the herds. We all have a duty to ensure the safety of people and the long-term welfare of the elk. If you see someone being disruptive or careless, whether intentional or not, kindly ask them to stop or report it to the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Northcentral Region by calling 57. The welfare of the elk herd is a shared responsibility. Naming animals that may be harvested later creates needless conflict between elk hunters and elk viewers/tourism.Ĥ. Elk are also a game species in Pennsylvania with an active and coveted hunting season occurring each year. Personifying elk as humans takes away from their truly wild nature. The elk in Pennsylvania are wild animals and need to be treated as such. Feeding also promotes the spread of infectious diseases by having them unnaturally congregate into small areas.ģ. This could cause them to approach people looking for more. Not only is it illegal to feed elk in Pennsylvania, but it teaches them to associate people, cars and/or homes with food. Cows are also known to defend their young when they feel threatened.Ģ.

Elk are wild animals that are unpredictable and sometimes aggressive, especially during the fall breeding season. Keep a distance – of at least 100 yards – between you and the elk. Those planning a trip to Pennsylvania’s Elk Country are asked to be ELK SMART and to do their part to help keep Pennsylvania elk WILD by following these four steps:ġ. While you’re visiting, do your part to preserve the WILD nature of the elk herd. Enjoy your time in Pennsylvania’s Elk Country!

Elk county pa