2014 Elk Rut has Begun

Today I saw a huge bull with a herd of cows in the Smith Creek field. He showed all the behaviors of a rutting herd bull. The Smith Creek Field is at the south end of Boxley Valley just north of Smith Creek and South of the Buffalo River bridge on 21.  This bull is easy to spot but about 80 yards from the road. Cool weather had been key to triggering the rut. This is the 3rd year running that the first visible rutting bull and cow herd has been in the Smith Creek Field.  Elk have been in a south valley pattern for quite a while now. The good news is this is probably the safest place for elk viewing in the valley. Please respect private property.  This bull looks like the departed Boxley Beast who dutifully bred in Boxley Valley for years. A fine looking animal.

Son of the Beast