When the Cows Come Home... :)

Elk herd behind the Barn.

We are blessed to live in an area that is surrounded by all walks of wildlife! The quiet of the Winter months relax the usually-shy game herds, so we are able at times to get within 20 feet of majestic animals that most people only see in pictures or read about in books as the game ventures closer to the Ranch or lets down its guard during hikes.

Baby Elk calf enjoying a salt lick near the corral on a chilly morning.

To date this Winter, in regards to bigger game, we have had the priviledge to see numerous Elk and Deer herds near the Ranch and throughout the nearby countryside. We have also spotted and heard a few Coyotes and Wolves, and fairly certain we heard a Mountain Lion release a deep growl snowshoeing. All of the wildlife is fun to see and hear, as they are all interesting and make such distinct and unique sounds. It's just as exciting to hear the mew of a cow Elk talking to her calf as it is to hear the haunting howl of a Wolf echo throughout the mountains.

Elk herd up Salt Creek above the Ranch.

For the purpose of this story, we'll focus our attentions on the Elk and save future dates for the other animals mentioned above. :) It is something you never forget when you "smell" the presence of an Elk or Elk herd. You can tell where they have wandered hours after they have passed by or, likewise, if the wind is right, before they approach. Enjoy and thanks for reading!