Elk_EP_2025_13Although not the bull elk that was struck and killed last week by a vehicle, the elk are frequently seen on roads in Estes Park , like this one crossing in front of traffic.

Last night a bull elk was hit on a state highway that runs through Estes Park at about 6 p.m. It was a young bull elk, and it was the second bull elk in two weeks struck and killed by a vehicle. 

Last Sunday morning, Nov. 2, the clocks were changed back into Daylight Standard Time. That means sunrise and sunset now occur near the busy rush hours on either end of the day. Even in Estes Park we have a rush hour when people are either leaving Rocky Mountain National Park as it gets dark to head home or people are going to or from the various businesses in town that operate on a traditional work schedule of 8 to 5, 10 to 6, etc. 

These times coincide with the times of day when animals migrate. Estes Park is full of wildlife. Elk and mule deer in particular are the most abundant large mammals and wander about town with little regard for crosswalks, stop signs or traffic lights. 

The elk are in their migration pattern right now. They have already moved out of the high country where they spend the summers but now that the rut is over, they are also moving out of the valleys and into the foothills where they will spend the winter. Large groups will be passing through various areas, and that often occurs at or near dawn and dusk. Because their historical migration routes are now intersected with roads, highways and neighborhoods, the animals move about with people in regular intervals. Lingering animals sometimes get caught on their own or don't keep up with the larger herd and may dart out onto roads. 

The mule deer have entered their rut season. The bucks have grown large necks in preparation of fighting with other males and have one thing on their mind – chasing the does. That means they too often dart out across roads – the does running away from males and bucks following after the females. These animals won't stop to check for cars. The fawns follow after mom as she runs from the bucks. The fawns also do not stop for traffic, especially as they try to decipher the behavior of their first rut season. 

As you drive along the roads in Colorado and dark roads in other states with abundant wildlife, keep these things in mind:

- Scan ahead for glowing eyes and movement on the side of roadways. If you see eyes or movement, slow down.

- If you see one deer or elk, there may be others following behind them. That one animal could be the beginning of a larger herd moving across the road. 

- If you see a doe or cow, there is a good chance a fawn or calf may be nearby. 

- Slow down on dark roadways and use high beams when safe in the absence of other drivers.

- Adhere to local speed limits. Many are adjusted this time of year to accommodate migrating wildlife.

- If you see an animal crossing sign, it isn't to alert the wildlife but rather the drivers that wildlife are active in the area. 

In Colorado, if you are involved in a wildlife-vehicle collision, call 9-1-1. If you see an animal hit, injured or in distress near the side of the road, report the animal to the Colorado State Patrol by calling *CSP (star key and 277). 

Living with wildlife is an amazing opportunity to be a part of their world. Let's help them continue to live and thrive by giving them space and slowing down.