>Could be a great year for
>you. Those elk from
>AZ (just across the state
>line), and there a bunches,
>will have to go somewhere.
> Unit 23 is a
>likely area that will have
>much higher elk densities this
>year.
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The elk in the wallow fire are not leaving, they will move out of the way in spots where the fire is intense, but in general they will not travel long distances for no reason. The fire is mostly on the floor and it is not burning everything. I've got pictures of elk eating green grass with fire burning around them.
Sorry, but it just isn't like Disney protrayed in Bambi where every critter in the forest is running for their lives to escape the inferno.
From what I've seen in the past, new elk will migrate into burns soon after the rains come becuase that's where the best feed will be. This year is predicted to have good monsoons so only time will tell for sure, but I do not expect localized populations of elk to change at all due to the wallow fire.
The biggest factor might be the fact that it's now calving season and the new calves could be at risk somewhat.
Unit 23 does hold some good bulls, but they are scattered and some of the unit is pretty darn rugged. Best of luck to you on your hunt!
"Windage & Elevation Pilgrim, Windage & Elevation"
