As elk enter the fall rut across Tennessee and North Carolina, wildlife officials are reminding visitors to keep their distance and never approach the animals.
GATLINBURG, Tenn. (Smokies.LIVE Adventure Center) — Fall is elk time in the Smokies, and with the annual rut underway, visitors are being reminded that the impressive animals can also become unpredictable.
The elk rut typically runs from early September through late October. During the rut, bull elk use their antlers to posture, intimidate rivals and spar. They may also challenge anything they perceive as a threat, including vehicles or people who get too close.
Earlier in the year, bulls shed their previous season’s antlers and begin growing a new set beneath a velvet covering. By August, hormonal changes end the growth phase and the velvet is rubbed away, revealing polished antlers.
Those antlers can reach 55 to 60 inches in length and weigh about 30 pounds per pair.
Give elk plenty of space
Visitors watching elk are urged to keep their distance and allow the animals to move freely.
Getting within 25 yards, or 75 feet, of an elk — or causing an elk to change its behavior — is dangerous and against federal law.
Visitors should use designated pull-offs to watch elk from a safe distance and should never stop in the roadway to view or photograph the animals.
Feeding wildlife is also prohibited.
If an elk approaches, visitors should back away immediately and give the animal plenty of space.
The fall rut provides an opportunity to see elk displaying some of their most recognizable natural behaviors, but wildlife officials say the best way to enjoy the experience is from a safe distance.
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