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Hooray! Ranch Hand Rescues Squealing Elk Calf Entangled In Barbed Wire
Cowboy State Daily • • science
Key Points:
- An elk calf became entangled in a ranch fence after ignoring a wildlife-friendly crossing panel, but was fortunately rescued by ranch hand Logan Wilson and his wife during a walk.
- Wilson calmed the distressed calf by covering its eyes with a jacket before freeing it, after which the calf used the designated crossing panel to escape safely.
- The Diamond Cross Ranch near Birney, Montana, has installed elk crossing panels with ramps to help elk move safely across fences, reducing harm and damage to crops.
- Ranch hand Wilson emphasizes the importance of caring for local wildlife and managing fences to accommodate elk movement, which also supports hunting revenue on the ranch.
- Wildlife biologist Kevin Monteith highlights that wildlife-friendly fencing designs, such as smooth lower wires and higher upper wires, improve animal safety and migration, noting young elk often get stuck trying to pass through fence middles.
