Join Justin McVey, District 9 Wildlife Biologist & Elk Biologist of the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) for an elk viewing and presentation at Oconaluftee Visitors Center in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP). The NCWRC manages the elk population that is outside the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation and the GSMNP, combined with an estimated population of 250 elk. The site has a large herd of around 60 elk. During the field day, you will witness elk at the peak rut which affords the opportunity to observe elk bugling and clashing antlers to see who wins breeding rights for the year. Please keep in mind that these bulls are full of testosterone and can charge or attack at any time. According to GSMNP laws, viewers are restricted to keeping 50yds (150ft) between them and the elk.
During the morning, you will see and learn about the behavior, biology, history, and current research of the elk that call North Carolina home. We will meet promptly at 7:30am at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center. Please arrive early to find parking, which you will have to pay for ($5): (https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/fees.htm#basics). The Oconaluftee Visitor Center is located on Newfound Gap Road (US-441) two miles north of Cherokee, NC. The physical address is 1194 Newfound Gap Rd Cherokee, NC 28719, https://www.google.com/maps/place/Oconaluftee+Visitor+Center/@35.5130615,-83.3087258,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x885943084a5a0cc1:0x2cb5dc8a86dd8004!8m2!3d35.5130615!4d-83.3061509!16s%2Fm%2F02x6ndq?entry=ttu. There will NOT be access to bathrooms at the visitor center until they open at 9:00am. Wear attire fitted for field work and bring binoculars; feel free to bring along field guides or other gear such as a camera.
