Cannon Beach Elk–Wonderful and Wild
The herds of Roosevelt Elk living in and around Cannon Beach are wild and wonderful.
It’s fun to spot them. Majestic, the elk appear docile as they lounge on lawns or wander along highways and greenspaces. Sometimes you can spot them on the beach or relaxing in Tolovana Park, just north of Tolovana Inn.
You never know where they will appear. They wander and forage by day. So, while spotting elk is fun, it is important to remember that these are large, wild animals that can cause harm if you aren’t careful. Or if they are approached.
Therefore, visitors and residents of Cannon Beach are urged to follow a few Elk Safety suggestions.
Elk Safety Tips
These tips are provided by the City of Cannon Beach, Department of Police and Public Safety
Suggestions:
- Don’t get too close–observe elk from 100 feet distance.
- Be aware of your surroundings and do not startle or walk into the middle of a herd.
- Keep your pets on a leash, as elk view dogs as predators and potential threats
- Be alert when driving, especially during dawn and dust when elk are most active. It’s not uncommon to see local law officials guiding traffic and directing the elk off the highway.
- Elk are more aggressive in May/June during calving season and n September/October during mating season
- Be especially cautious of deer with fawns. Mother deer are very protective of their young. You will see that most often in the summer months
- Don’t feed the elk. As with all wild animals, feeding them can harm them and it’s illegal in Cannon Beach.
The resident Roosevelt Elk herds are just another of Cannon Beach’s unique charms. Enjoy them but as you do, keep yourself and pets safe.
