NEW VELVET ON BULL ELKS

Its that time of year when the Bull Elk are growing their new antlers.  Initially, as they grow, they appear very thick and covered with velvet.  In fact, they are referred to as velvet.  Here is the definition from Wikipedia.

1. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Velvet_antlerVelvet antler refers to the whole cartilaginous antler in a precalcified growth stage of the Cervidae family including the species of deer, elk, moose and caribou.

Later in the summer the velvet disappears and the antlers look more "normal."   

This Bull Elk was right in front of the Overlook yesterday foraging.  Right now, everything is very green and lush in Estes.  This will change in the next few weeks as things dry out.  However, for now, the Elk and Deer are loving all the vegetation.