Beefy, I don't think you took this photo? I think it is an email photo?
There is something about this photo that bothers me.
I think this tree was alive when it fell to the ground. I say that because the needles are still on the branches. Usually when a tree dies while standing, they lose their needles and turn into a "snag" and then at some point down the road it rots and falls over. BUT, it is possible for a tree to die, turn all brown and then fall within a very short time. Not likely though. The odds are against it, IMO. Especially with no other dead trees in the back ground.
So, assuming I'm correct and the tree was alive when it fell over, it takes at least two weeks for the needles to turn brown. I know that from my past logging experience, and having lived among trees all my life.
So, assuming the tree was down for at least two weeks, that means the elk has been laying there for that long. And that elk looks to be in too good of shape for having laid there for at least two weeks. Unless of course the tree just pinned him there and he lived for some period of time.
So what am I saying? Heck, I don't know! LOL! I wish hunting season would hurry up and get here. I have a tendancy to over think things this time of year.
Eel