Elk Information
Sudbury Elk Population (Mar. 2005
update)
177 elk were introduced into the Burwash area between 1998 and 2003. The
bulk (172) of these animals came from Alberta in 4 shipments
(1998-2001). In 2003, we also brought in 5 "problem" elk from other
areas (Blind River and Parry Sound). 98% of the released animals were
collared.
In 2005, we are still tracking 38 elk (mostly cows) with working
collars.
Over the past 7 years, we've confirmed
the death of 87 collared
animals;
- 29 of these were killed by wolves
- 12 died still in holding enclosure as
a consequence of relocation injuries/infections
- 24 died due to exhaustion/post-release
stress
- 10 were killed by trains or
vehicles
- 10 drowned
- 2 were poached
56 of the introduced animals are
currently not accounted for (had no collars or collars were shed/stopped
working).
The following are our current population dynamics
statistics/estimates:
Population structure (pre-calving): 12-15% bulls, 65-70% cows, 20-25%
calves
Estimated annual reproductive rate: 80-85% of cow numbers (73-78 calves
born)
Estimated Annual Recruitment: 20-30% of cow numbers (18-28 calves left
at end of winter)
Estimated Annual mortality (yearling/adult): 10-15% (10-15 animals)
Estimated annual population growth: 3-10% (depending on winter severity)
Current Population Estimate (pre-calving): 120-150 (80-100 introduced,
40-50 resident)
The introduced and resident populations are becoming more and more
integrated and it is no longer possible to readily identify and keep
track of animals in each group.
Sudbury Elk
Restoration