New research out of Canada indicates that cow elk become more cautious, more wary and better able to avoid hunters as they grow older.
Scientists at the University of Alberta placed GPS collars on 49 cows and tracked them by logging their locations for seven years. Among other things, they found that once female elk reach 10 years of age, it becomes extremely difficult for hunters to harvest them.
Unlike bull elk which cover many miles on their own during mating season, cows remain with the herd and move shorter distances as they age. They also tend to remain in heavy cover, use rugged terrain and avoid roads.
(Photo courtesy: Alberta Fish & Game Association)