Below is a Facebook post from the Pennsylvania Game Commission – Northcentral Region.
This week, a bull elk found himself in serious trouble after getting rope tightly tangled in his antlers. Thankfully, we were able to step in and help.
State Game Warden Blaine Groshek and Elk Technician Makayla Groshek responded quickly after receiving reports of this elk. They safely tranquilized the bull, carefully removed the rope and placed “do not eat” tags in his ears, since elk archery season began on Sept. 13. After receiving a reversal drug, the elk got back on his feet and walked off unharmed.
Entanglements like this happen more often than you’d think, especially during the rut (mating season). Items like old wire, rope swings, hammocks or even holiday lights can become dangerous if left out.
If you live in or near the elk range, please double check your yard or camp for anything that could become entangled in antlers. A simple cleanup can prevent injuries or worse.
A big thank you to everyone who reported this bull to the Game Commission and to Warden Groshek and Elk Technician Groshek who helped safely free the bull from the rope.
Please report any Pennsylvania wildlife issues to 1-833-PGC-WILD (833-742- 9453).
(Photo credit: Pennsylvania Game Commission)