Video: The Little Elk That Could

by
posted on April 9, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
wilder_ah2015_fs.jpg (6)

Elk can thrive in some of the roughest back country habitats our country offers—so one getting defeated by a relatively small fence would have to represent the height of embarrassment, if the massive mammals felt such things. That's what happened last week, though, as seen in a video that's made its rounds on the web the last few days.

The video, filmed near the region of Yellowstone National Park that extends into Montana, begins with the juvenile elk's herd systematically leaping a fence in order to cross the road and reach a neighboring field. If you look closely, you'll see that the man-made divider provides something of a challenge for more than a few of the younger, smaller elk in the group—but they all do, eventually, get over.

The star of our video, though, seems particularly timid about taking the leap. The young elk makes a number of attempts to simply walk over the fence, but only succeeds in getting tangled up. I've been there, my friend, believe me.

It then seems to try the (very crafty) approach of walking up and down the fence line in hopes of finding an opening. That plan also fails, though I do appreciate the outside-the-box thinking.

Finally, after getting spooked by a passing SUV and backing up a bit, the little elk throws caution to the wind, gets a running start and catapults itself over the fence with ease. Mission accomplished. It quickly caught up with its herd on the other side of the road.

Watch the whole scene play out for yourself with the video embedded below. If you're looking for more elk-related humor, check out my earlier posts regarding a camera shy bull and a cow with an interesting accessory.

Latest

Ledemichigan Hunter Draws
Ledemichigan Hunter Draws

61-Year-Old Elk-Hunting Dream Fulfilled in Michigan

Michigan elk hunters faced challenging weather and storm-ravaged terrain to harvest 153 elk in 2025. That didn’t deter Bruce Nelson of Hastings, Mich. He applied for an elk license every year Michigan has held a drawing.

New for 2026: Blaser R8 Professional 2.0

The Blaser R8 Professional 2.0 promises to be the modern evolution of the iconic straight-pull rifle. The rifle features a new, ergonomically optimized vertical pistol grip for increased comfort and improved control when firing, and its ambidextrous palm swell fits both right- and left-handed shooters.

New for 2026: Leupold BX-6 Range HD Rangefinding Binocular

Leupold has launched its BX-6 Range HD rangefinding binocular. With fast, accurate ranging capabilities out to 6,000 yards, an advanced ballistics intelligence and precision GPS pinning, the BX-6 Range HD is looking to carve out a space for itself as a feature-rich rangefinding offering.

(Squirrel) Dog Days in the Delta

In the Deep South, Ringo and Max prove the sole purpose in the life of a feist is to hunt squirrels.

Primos Celebrates its 50th Anniversary

Primos, now a Revelyst brand, will continue its 50th anniversary celebration throughout 2026 with a brand refresh, new product launches, storytelling initiatives and moments that honor the hunters and traditions that made the brand what it is today.

Henry Introduces New Deadeye Revolvers

Henry Repeating Arms has announced the addition of two new revolver variants, the H16 Golden Boy Deadeye Revolver and the H17 Big Boy Deadeye Revolver, created in direct response to feedback from Henry owners and enthusiasts.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.