Jan14 Hunt

Virtual Elk Hunt

January 14, 2004

Unit 20

Northern Colorado

Wednesday, January 14th

It’s the last day of this season. I’m up in the big meadow cow calling and glassing for elk walking just inside the tree line. I didn’t see an elk all day. It’s another nice day. It’s been very warm for January in the 50s. I wanted to make a comment about the photo. Elk are extremely durable animals. This photo reveals their secret. On the outside they grow a very thick coat of winter hair. But just under the hide between the muscle and hide lies an extra layer very similar to bubble wrap. This layer keeps them warm on those below zero nights when the wind is howling.

Even in the winter during the coldest days elk can be found on North-facing slopes like this one. Elk will bed and travel along these slopes all year long. You should mark these areas on your map. When you get to visit elk country take a walk on these slopes looking for fresh sign. You surely find something.

Never underestimate the value of locating a nice saddle in elk country. They are where elk cross going from one area to another. In fact this saddle was busy. The elk would stick to the trees but some would come out on the edge of the meadow. Saddles are big parts of elk country. It’s a great place to sit and wait for elk to walk by.

I leave you with this. The end to my January hunt was also a popular place for other hunters. Hunters are good people who enjoy the outdoors as much as they appreciate the wild game that live there. If it weren’t for my father taking me when I was a child I wouldn’t be writing this or even out in the elements looking for elk. It’s something special you can pass along to your children or even a friend. If you can’t read the plaque here is what it says “In memory of Darrel Ray Olson, Aug 12^th, 1933 – April 23^rd, 2000. To a great friend and hunting partner that will be greatly missed. Love, Wayne Earl.” Like I said there’s a special bond between hunters and friends. And so the cycle of life continues. Tom took his elk within yards of this sign. It’s a place where elk and man travel through. And an important place to both.