Wildlife Wednesday — Elk Rut Fever

By Andy Ames

Do you have trouble sleeping or wake up with a high pitched squealing in your ears? You may be suffering from Elk Fever. Symptoms may vary but Elk Fever is running wild through the Estes Valley. All residents and visitors have likely been exposed. If you have any of the following symptoms you may have Elk Fever. Immediately stopping whatever you were doing upon sight of an elk, inability to judge distance or calculate risk, dress in camouflage for weeks on end, urge to selfie with an elk, buying elk tee shirt or apparel, desire to pet or ride an elk, otherwise drawn to elk, and mesmerized by sound of their bugle and clanking of antlers. If you are displaying any of these symptoms, precaution should include not driving or operating heavy machinery, and keeping a safe distance from elk. There is no known cure for Elk Fever, but fortunately, this condition usually runs its course by the end of October and the conclusion of the elk rut.