![]() The tule elk herds had virtually disappeared by 1860, thirteen years before the state awarded them complete protection. In the spring of 1978, two bulls and eight cows were brought in from the San Luis Island Wildlife Refuge near Los Banos. The elk were contained within a temporary, three acre enclosure to allow for adjustment to their new surroundings. That summer, six of the cows bore calves. In the fall, seventeen elk were released from the enclosure on Tomales Point to 1,050 hectares (2,600 acres) of open grassland and coastal scrub. By the summer of 1988, the population was at ninety-three animals. The population census taken in 2000 counted over 400 elk. In 2009, over 440 were counted at Tomales Point, making the the Point Reyes herds one of the largest populations in California. The tule elk can be found in several locations within the park but the best chance of seeing them is in the Tule Elk Preserve at Tomales Point. They graze freely and are often seen near the road as you drive into the preserve. Tule Elk Rut Season![]() August through October is an exciting time of year on Tomales Point. Visitors will likely hear bull elk bugling and see them attempting to round up harems of females. The lucky visitor may even get to see a couple of bull elk sparring. Elk Watching TipsTo help you enjoy your experience, please follow these elk watching tips:
Learn MoreDiscover more about the tule elk by visiting our Tule Elk web page. | |
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Last updated: June 15, 2020