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National Elk Refuge Cautions Drivers

Elk
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Large numbers of Elk have been seen migrating near Jackson and across major roadways last weekend. The National Elk Refuge is urging drivers around the Jackson area to be especially careful in the coming week as hundreds of elk make their way across the area.

The refuge says a winter storm that brought colder temperatures and more than a foot of snow likely kicked off the migration. Elk mainly move at dawn and dusk which makes sighting them more difficult. Refuge spokesperson Lori Iverson says migrations, wintery conditions and drivers take a toll on animals in the area.

“114 Mule Deer and 35 elk are killed every year on Teton County Wyoming Roads," says Iverson. "And of course other animals like Moose, Bison and bears are involved in wildlife vehicle collisions as well.”

Iverson says drivers across the state should reduce speeds and keep an extra eye out for migrating animals especially in low light and poor conditions. 

Jordan Giese is a political science major currently working on his bachelor's degree. He has lived in Wyoming all his life but has a focus on both local issues and international stories. He moved to Laramie just last year rediscovering Wyoming and all it has to offer in landspaces, opportunities and people. He has listened to WPR for years and is thrilled to contribute to an important state service and NPR.
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