A dog was tragically killed in Canmore after being trampled by a cow elk believed to be protecting a newborn calf.
Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Services (FWES) responded promptly to reports of an elk charging and injuring the dog at around 10 a.m., but the animal was not found at the scene. Unfortunately, officials confirmed the dog did not survive the attack.
Spring marks the calving season for female elk, who can become especially aggressive in May and June while guarding their vulnerable newborns. Cow elk often hide their calves in dense brush and remain nearby to protect them, sometimes charging at perceived threats such as people or dogs.
Nick de Ruyter, program director for Bow Valley WildSmart, expressed sadness over the incident, emphasizing the unfortunate risks during this sensitive time of year.
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