Elk in the Bitterroot Valley in January by amontanaview
Two cows and two calves were moving from a pasture into timber here. This photo has only one of the calves. The day was overcast and snowing lightly in early January 2012. To me, the interesting behavior was how the two cows stayed so close together as they milled around while I snapped the photos. When I left, they continued to calmly move up into the timber.
See more photos at Two elk cows and calves in January
Taken west of Victor, Montana USA.
Notes of interest: This time of year, the elk cows and calves hang out in smaller groups. These two cows are probably pregnant and in the pasture looking for areas that are free of snow and covered with nutritious grass.
Also, notice the shorter snout/jaw on the calf.
Canon EOS 7D, 1/100s, f/5.6, ISO: 1250, 300mm, manual mode
Cannon EF 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 DO IS USM
Jan 6, 2012 
Comments
Come on hon – give your mom and dad a smooch – you’re doing fine! You’re adorable.
Sweet thought. Actually, the two larger elk are both cows. One is mom and one is auntie!
– amontanaview
Wow Kim, thank you so much!
– amontanaview
Beautiful capture Merle! How nice to be able to photograph such wildlife.
Thank you. I feel so blessed every time I get to see these wonderful creatures. I love to share those moments in photographs!
– amontanaview
This year, so far, they shouldn’t have any trouble finding snow-free grass. Great capture, Merle.
SO true! I always try to say something about the photo and in this case, stated the obvious. It was fun to see them so close. I see them a lot, but not often close enough for good photos. Hopefully we will get more snow soon! Our rivers and grass will need it next summer.
– amontanaview
wonderful capture Merle !!
Thank you Gisela, they were fun to watch. Kind of a grey day, but after all, it is winter.
– amontanaview