Elk aren't just in the Rockies. They were once common in Virginia, but the population was decimated due to hunting and habitat destruction. However, a successful reintroduction has led to a herd of over 250 in Virginia.
In 2012, Virginia launched a conservation effort to bring elk back to the land for lovers. They cleaned up the habitat and brought in more than 70 elk. The rehabilitated land has attracted all types — including white-tailed deer, birds, wild turkeys, insects, and black bears.
August to October is the best time to see elk in the wild. Listen for their wild “bugling” sounds and keep a look out at dawn and dusk, when they are most likely to be awake.
If you want to make the trek, there are three viewing spots in Buchanan County, about six hours from D.C. Or you can try and catch them on the live cam.
Once Decimated, the Virginia Elk Population is Coming Back
Kaela Cote-Stemmermann
An adult bull in The George Washington National Forest, Virginia. (Stevan Nicholas/Flickr)
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