An Irruption of Elk in Riding Mountain National Park, Manitoba

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Abstract
The status of Cervus canadensis in the park was investigated during the winter and spring of 1947. The severe winter of 1946-47 had caused a reduction from 77.1 to 58.7 elk per square mile on the concentrated winter ranges, an estimated mortality of 20%. The rising yearling age class had the heaviest mortality (64%). Examination of 59 carcasses showed that the youngest and oldest age classes suffered the greatest loss. In certain areas severe damage was caused to Populus tremuloides, 76% under 10 ft. were killed, while 69% over 10 ft. in height were peeled. Other plants, Betula glandulosa, Corylus americana,were able to withstand heavy browsing by adventitious growth.

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