This is the sixth and final installment in my Majestic Elk of Boxley Valley: A Photography Series. I’m excited to share images of a young elk calf that I observed in the same area where I photographed the bull and cow elk in previous posts.
I watched the calf emerge from the trees into the open field all by itself. It slowly grazed, following behind the herd’s cows at a distance. I never witnessed it near any of the adult females.
Elk calves are born in late spring and spend their first weeks hidden away, nursing and bonding with their mothers. Around six to eight months old, they are weaned off milk and become more independent. This calf was likely getting accustomed to wandering on its own.
It was rewarding to see a glimpse into the next generation of this wild elk herd. Capturing photos of the bulls, cows, and now calves engaging in natural behaviors has been an incredible wildlife photography adventure. I’m grateful for the opportunity to observe and document these majestic elk in their Ozark Mountain home.
Steve Creek, Wildlife Photographer
Image Information (First Image):
- Date: 10/9/23
- Time: 8:30 AM
- Camera: Canon EOS R5
- Lens: Canon RF 100-500 mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
- ISO: 5000
- Aperture: 7.1
- Shutter: 1/800
- Exp. Comp.: +0.7
- Lens (mm): 500
- Program: Manual
Thank you for the great series on the Boxley Valley Elk. Very enjoyable & informative
Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed the series.
Hi Creek, I have thoroughly enjoyed your Boxley Elk series. The photos are terrific and so is the information in each post!