Elk Meeting

A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken. Ecclesiastes 4:11 (NLT)

There are reasons why many animals do not wander their territory alone in the wilderness. It’s true that there is strength in numbers, not to mention protection and safety. Instead of just one set of ears and eyes, this small herd of elk has the benefit of six pairs to help warn them of approaching danger.

Elk always make me think of wilderness and the wild country of the mountains where I’m privileged to hike. They are one of the largest land mammals in North America, and one of the largest in the deer family. Males (bulls) average about 700 pounds and stand about five feet tall at the shoulder. Females (cows) weigh about 500 pounds and stand a bit more than four feet at the shoulder.

I photographed these elk in the springtime when they were starting to shed their thick winter fur. Bulls have large antlers which they shed about this time of year. I think I see evidence of the start of new antler growth on at least a couple of the elk in the picture.

Wolves, cougars, bears, and even coyotes prey on the elk at various stages of their lives. Those especially vulnerable are the newborn and weak. So like most of us, it’s to the elk’s advantage to gather with some like-minded family and friends whilst going through life.

The wisdom from the above Scripture states it in an interesting way.

Hope you have a great day.