First calves of the year born at Lone Elk Park

The first calves of the year have been born at Lone Elk Park in St. Louis County.

The elk and bison calves were born on May 21. It is calving season at Lone Elk Park and St. Louis County’s Department of Parks and Recreation advises the public to give the animals plenty of space and do not approach.

“These are very large animals, about 800 to 1,000 pounds,” said Brian Schaffer, director of the Parks and Recreation Department. “Mothers are very protective and will defend their babies. You might not know you’re near a calf because the mother hides them in the woods, so please be sure to give them plenty of space.”

Calving season traditionally runs from mid-May through June. Last year, five elk calves and three bison calves were born at Lone Elk.

Lone Elk Park is a wildlife management area consisting of 546 acres with bison, wild turkey, waterfowl, elk, and deer. It is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset.