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

W H2026 07 Knowhow Csrackboat9.17.7
W H2026 07 Knowhow Csrackboat9.17.7

How To: So You Want to Shoot a Moose!

Looking to DIY a moose hunt? It's a rewarding experience, but there are quite a few things you should know before you go. Here is a primer from someone who's been there.

New for 2026: ScentLok Women's Alpha Elite Jacket and Bib

Female hunters looking for extra-warm, late-season whitetail protection no longer must settle for oversized men's cuts. The ScentLok Women's Alpha Elite Jacket and Bib are officially shipping and available at retail, delivering a specialized fit for the dedicated late-season outdoorswoman.

Head to Head: The 9.3x62 vs. 9.3x74R

A battle of 9.3mms. While this particular caliber never really caught on here in the states, it may be time for this old safari favorite to find its way into a few more gunrooms. Check out more about them here.

RCBS Released 7mm Backcountry Reloading Die

RCBS has announced the launch of its new 7mm Backcountry Die Set. Engineered specifically to meet the demands of reloading this high-performance cartridge, the RCBS 7mm Backcountry Die Set is a unique three-die system that includes a neck sizer die, expander die and bullet seater die. The set delivers enhanced control, consistency and accuracy when reloading the 7mm BC and the patented Peak alloy cartridge case.

Hodgdon Launches Accurate High Country Powder for 7mm Backcountry

Hodgdon Powder Company have introduced Accurate High Country, an all-new spherical rifle propellant engineered for the performance demands of today's modern magnum cartridges, including Federal's new 7mm Backcountry.

IWC and Guidefitter Honor 2026 Game Warden of the Year

International Wildlife Crimestoppers (IWC), in partnership with Guidefitter, named Senior Conservation Officer Meghan Roos of the Idaho Department of Fish and Game the recipient of the 2026 IWC Guidefitter Game Warden of the Year Award. Officer Roos received the award during International Wildlife Crimestoppers’ annual conference in July.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.