September 11, 2014

Point Reyes Tule Elk


click photo for full-size image
photo by Donald Kinney

Thanks again to the N.P.S. for the great historical information that I pasted in from their website on yesterday's post. Now, lets talk about the character of these skiddish and odd creatures. And, how difficult they are sometimes to photograph, or sometimes to even find.



click photo for full-size image
photo by Donald Kinney

Don't get too close... They don't want to be petted!

The Tule Elk preserve (operated by the U.S. Governmet) is located at the extreme northern part of Point Reyes. Nearby is the trailhead to Tomales Point which is 5 miles north. A spectacular beach; McClures is down the hill, and Pierce Point Dairy has been here since the 1860's.

The land feature in the background in the photo above is Point Reyes Point, with 325 steps descending to a lighthouse built in 1870.



click photo for full-size image
photo by Donald Kinney

Tule Elk are skiddish and shy, but they can also be aggressive, especially during mating season. These odd creatures of nature are smaller than "regular" Elk but signs warn that they are strong and protective. With long legs they vaguely look like a cross between a Llama and a Horse.



click photo for full-size image
photo by Donald Kinney

"I'm ready for my closeup now, Mr. DeMille"...

In reality, a telephoto lens is needed to get anywhere near these critters.
All these photos have been cropped a bit.



click photo for full-size image
photo by Donald Kinney

And where dairy cows from Pierce Point Dairy used to roam, this Tule Elk stands proud. I'll be showing photos of the historic dairy soon. Stay tuned.

originally appeared on AphotoAday, December 29, 2012

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