Herd of elk raising concern near Rexburg

Idaho Department of Fish and Game officials report a herd of about 100 elk wandered into a rural area between Sugar City and Rexburg Monday.

Officials say the elk have been sighted from both Highway 20 and Highway 33 and are a cause for concern to passing motorists.

Madison County Sherriff’s office and Idaho Fish and Game are aware of the situation and are monitoring the herd closely.

“They are in a tough spot to move given their proximity to Highway 20, Highway 33 and the high density of fences in the area,” says Wildlife Manager Curtis Hendricks with Fish and Game. “There is nowhere to push them without causing potential safety concerns.”

GPS collar data from several animals in the group allowed wildlife managers to determine that these elk came from the Teton canyon area.

“It is likely that recent weather events may have caused the elk to move down the canyon,” said Hendricks. “We will keep close watch on them as we work with local law enforcement to move the elk safely if we can.”

According to Fish and Game, during the winter months, it is not uncommon for wildlife to move closer into cities or towns. As the snow gets deeper and starts to crust, animals like deer, elk and moose seek lower elevations where the snow is not as deep and food is easier to access. Elk, in particular, are easily drawn to haystacks with the allure of an easy meal.

Wildlife Biologist Duston Cureton who has been monitoring the elk herd since they moved in, says he will be working with local landowners to help prevent damage to their property and keep the elk out of haystacks.

“The last thing we want is for these elk to set up shop where they could cause damage or an accident,” said Cureton.

The Idaho Transportation Department has placed a sign on the roadway warning motorist of the danger.

Drivers are cautioned to be on the lookout for wildlife crossings, slow down and follow all traffic safety rules.