Renowned wildlife photographer Rod Young is well-acquainted with the bull elk in Prince Albert National Park. In early October, Young noticed one of the bull elk in distress, tangled in some sort of netting or cargo netting, possibly a hammock. After capturing photos and a brief video of the distressed animal, Young promptly reported the situation to Parks Canada authorities.
Parks Canada resource conservation staff, led by acting resource conservation manager Tom Perry, located the elk on Kingsmere Road. They administered a tranquilizing agent to the elk, enabling them to safely remove the entangling netting. Perry mentioned that the elk was briefly immobilized for about 40 minutes while they monitored its condition. Once the elk showed signs of recovery, the team allowed it to regain consciousness and walk away.
Unfortunately, ten days later, another bull elk required rescue after becoming entangled in fencing. Perry emphasized the importance of wildlife professionals responding swiftly to such crises to prevent harm or potential fatalities to the animals. He highlighted the risks posed by various materials like snow fencing, ropes, and netting commonly found in outdoor settings.
To promote wildlife safety, Perry urged individuals to secure or avoid using materials that could endanger animals. He stressed the need for responsible coexistence with wildlife, advising a safe distance of 30 meters or three bus lengths when observing wild animals, particularly during the elk mating season in the fall.
Perry emphasized the importance of wildlife conservation in the townsite of Waskesiu, where a sizable elk herd frequents the area. He encouraged respectful observation of wildlife while maintaining a safe distance to ensure both human and animal safety.