@grandcanyonnps

Meep, meep! No that’s not a roadrunner—it’s a baby elk! Elk calves are noisy critters. Their squeaky voice is often used to call out for mom. (Ain’t no shame little one, even adults call for mommy every now and again.) As a visitor, you can look but don’t touch or approach. Momma elk are very protective of their babies; what kind of mom would they be if they weren’t?! Remember the “Rule of Thumb”: extend your arm in front of you, stick out your thumb, and close one eye (Animals love being given a thumbs-up and a wink!). If you can completely cover the animal with the tip of your thumb, you are likely at safe distance. Help protect elk and other wildlife by following this rule and posted speed limits. You never know what might unexpectedly run out into the roadway. -AR Learn more: https://www.nps.gov/grca/learn/nature/elk-danger.htm Photo courtesy of Samantha Troi #ImageDescription A newborn elk, reddish-brown with white spots, lays hidden and curled up behind a downed tree near the rim of an immense and colorful canyon. #WildlifeWednesday #GrandCanyon #Arizona #WednesdayWisdom