Elk exist in Pennsylvania, representing one of the most successful wildlife conservation stories in the eastern United States. This magnificent animal, a type of Rocky Mountain Elk, now thrives in the northcentral mountains after a long absence from the Commonwealth. The current herd is a testament to dedicated habitat restoration and long-term wildlife management strategies undertaken by the state. This thriving population attracts significant tourism and offers unique opportunities to see large, free-ranging elk in their natural habitat.
A History of Absence and Return
The native Eastern elk (a distinct subspecies) once roamed across Pennsylvania, but their numbers declined rapidly following European settlement. Unregulated hunting and widespread habitat destruction effectively wiped out the population in the state. The last known native elk was killed around the late 1870s, marking the end of the species’ original presence in Pennsylvania.
The process of reestablishing elk began decades later, led by the newly formed Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC). In 1912, the PGC decided to reintroduce the animals by sourcing elk from the western United States. The first major shipment arrived in 1913, consisting of 50 Rocky Mountain Elk from Yellowstone National Park.
These initial animals were released into remote areas of Clinton and Clearfield counties, far from agricultural lands to minimize conflict with farmers. The PGC continued these efforts, releasing a total of 177 elk between 1913 and 1926 into various northcentral counties. Although the herd faced challenges from poaching and habitat issues over the following decades, the foundation for the current population was successfully established.
Current Range and Population Status
The elk herd today is managed within a specific region of the state known as the Elk Management Area (EMA), located in the rugged mountains of northcentral Pennsylvania. This range encompasses over 3,000 square miles, primarily across portions of Elk, Cameron, Clinton, Clearfield, and Potter counties. The animals are free-ranging and inhabit a mix of state forest, state game lands, and private property.
Annual aerial surveys conducted by the PGC help determine the population size and distribution. These surveys utilize thermal imaging and radio-collared animals to generate a reliable estimate. The herd is currently robust, with population estimates consistently indicating a count of approximately 1,200 to 1,500 animals.
Herd health and population density are maintained through a regulated lottery hunting system, which the PGC reinstated in 2001. This controlled harvest helps balance the elk population with the available habitat and minimizes conflicts with landowners. Additionally, the PGC actively manages habitat by creating and maintaining open herbaceous areas, which provide high-quality forage for the elk.
Viewing and Interaction Guidelines
The town of Benezette, Pennsylvania, is considered the center of “Elk Country” and offers the best opportunities for public viewing. Dedicated viewing areas, such as Winslow Hill and Hicks Run, are managed to attract the animals and provide visitors with safe, designated observation points. The greatest likelihood of seeing elk occurs during the crepuscular hours of dawn and dusk, when the animals move between sheltered woodlands and open feeding grounds.
The fall rut, which typically runs from September through October, is the most popular time for visitors. Bull elk are vocal and active while competing for mates, and the distinctive bugling call of the bulls can be heard across the valleys. Visitors are encouraged to be patient and use binoculars, as the elk are wild and may be distant.
Because elk are powerful, unpredictable wild animals, a strict distance must be maintained for public safety and the animals’ welfare. Visitors are required to keep a minimum distance of 100 yards from all elk. Approaching, touching, or feeding the elk is illegal and can lead to habituation, making the animals less wary of humans.
Responsible viewing includes never stopping a vehicle in the roadway and using designated parking areas to avoid traffic issues. Disturbing or harassing the wildlife is prohibited under state regulations. Adhering to these guidelines ensures the herd remains wild and that public viewing remains a sustainable experience.