Clam Lake Elk Herd Update (April 2016)

Population Status: The past two winters have been mild resulting in favorable overwinter conditions for elk and other species of wildlife in northern Wisconsin. In addition, northern Wisconsin experienced an early spring green up in 2015 and it looks like the same will happen in 2016. Right now (pre-calving), the population estimate is approximately 130 elk within the 1,620 square mile Clam Lake Elk Range.

Elk having ‘a great year,’ says DNR biologist

Gathered for their annual “Bugle Days Rendezvous” recently near Clam Lake, 65 Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF) members heard an update from the state’s chief big game biologist about the health of the elk herds in Wisconsin.

They also heard a positive report from the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest supervisor about expanded timber harvest in the national forest that will benefit the elk herd.

September – Fall Elk Bugling

September – Fall Elk Bugling

Elk bugling is a special feature of the fall rut usually starting in late August and running through late September in the Clam Lake, Wisconsin area. As the big bull elk prepare to attract female cows, they let out bellows, which range from deep tones to high-pitch squeals to grunts.