In 2006, the biggest news to report is the apparent success of the calving season. To date we have been able to visually confirm the birth of ten calves. Of those born, eight have survived and appear to be doing quite well! Although not confirmed there are probably more elk calves in and around the Cataloochee area.
Calf reproduction this year is significantly better than in 2005 when only three of the nine calves born survived. All known losses but one were due to predation. The two known calf mortalities in 2006 resulted from black bear predation.
In an effort to evaluate the impact of bears on elk calves some bears were relocated from Cataloochee Valley to other areas in the park. History of park bear management has shown that most bears relocated in the Park return to the capture site. But, by the time these animals return the young calves should be old enough to travel safely with their mothers.
While it is disheartening to lose any of the newborn calves, some mortality is expected, and considering the amount of predation documented since elk were released, 2006 appears to be the most promising thus far. Also, at least four of the known surviving calves are female adding to the optimism this year. Visitors to the Valley can expect to see several young calves running, playing, and nursing from their mothers in the Cataloochee fields almost every morning or evening.
The bulls of Cataloochee are still traveling together and with their antlers in full velvet they make quite a sight to see! There are several impressive racks in the group including a couple that are 6x6 and 7x7. Bull #17 looks to have the largest rack with eight points on each side. Bull #4 may have the most unique antlers (3x4), since both have a fairly large palmated formation at the top. Last year Bull #16 was the dominant bull of the Valley, but he has yet to return. It will be interesting to see if he can defend his title.
Unfortunately in 2006 we have documented the loss of one and possibly two adult elk. In March, Bull #25 was found dead near Heintooga Road. In May, Bull #1’s collar was found on a ridge surrounding Cataloochee Valley. The last sighting of him reports him in poor health and although no remains were found near the collar, it is likely that he died.
The elk of the valley may appear to be quite docile and friendly, but please remember that if they feel like you are threatening them or their calf, they will defend it without warning. Please stay in or near your vehicle and never approach any of the wildlife in Cataloochee.
With the current heat wave keeping the elk back in the woods longer everyday, the best chances to see the elk are right around daybreak and after 6 pm when the heat of the day starts to subside. Thank you and enjoy your visit!
Report by Joe Yarkovich
Elk Research Coordinator
