A new study based on Parks Canada data from 2010 through 2023 finds that elk are involved in nearly two-thirds of aggressive wildlife encounters, underscoring the risk even during common recreational activities. Researchers analyzed incidents of aggressive wildlife encounters and the activities people were engaged in when they occurred, revealing that quiet pursuits—such as hiking, walking, and sightseeing—were frequently the context for these near-misses and confrontations.
The findings come from Parks Canada’s records spanning more than a decade, focusing on how and when encounters happen. The study highlights that elk, rather than other wildlife, accounted for a large share of the aggressive interactions documented during the period studied.
Details on the specific numbers, the geographic scope within national parks, and how the encounters were categorized were not provided in the briefing. The analysis emphasizes the importance of situational awareness for visitors engaging in everyday park activities, even in settings that might feel tranquil or routine.
