Premature Balding in Elk Herds Worsens

(Black Forest — October 26, 2015)

Signs of widespread premature balding among local bull elk has fish and game officials perplexed and worried about the future. According to a series of medical reports the animals are losing their hair at an alarming rate.

Local ranchers claim the elk shed every 11 years, an opinion discarded by the state wardens.

“We’ve seen the elk lose hair before,” said Ernest DelFisher. “I’ve seen all the cures and all the treatments but nothing works.”

Many feel the problem is cyclical and that it deepens every fall when thousands of hunters chase them around looking for meat. Fortunately the malady, whatever it is, does not affect racks.

“I think the DOW should lighten up and cease the tampering, the collaring,” continued DelFisher, “at least until the hair loss stops.”

Sources in Denver continue to monitor the herds, dropping protein tablets and hair growth ointment in favored meadows and clearings. Officials plan to segregate the balding from the healthy animals and stabilize the situation.
– Elke Winters