The first calves of the year were born at Lone Elk Park May 21. Elk calving season runs from the end of May through the first two weeks of June.
The St. Louis County Parks and Recreation Department urges the public to not approach the animals and give them plenty of space.
“They are large animals, about 800 to 1,000 pounds,” Brian Schaffer, director of the Parks and Recreation Department, stated in a press release from the county. “Mothers are very protective and will defend their babies. You might not know you’re near a calf because the mother hides them in the woods, so please be sure to give them plenty of space.”
Last year, five elk calves and three bison were born at Lone Elk Park.
Lone Elk Park is a wildlife management area in Valley Park, spanning 546 acres with bison, wild turkey, waterfowl, elk and deer.