The Attack of the Killer Elk

Sun Tzu once said, "The art of war is deception".  This is also applicable in the animal kingdom.  Sara, Nick, mom and I were having a peaceful stroll through the Garden of The Gods park near Denver Colorado.  As we were walking an Elk was strolling along with us.  Thinking to myself, "how beautiful, one of Gods creatures in all it's grace, peaceful, tranquility, a friend to all".  Because of its close proximity to us I thought it wanted to commune with man.  I started to capture this peaceful moment by way of digital media.  Then out of nowhere the dang thing charges me.  What the freak!  The crazy thing is, I see it charging me, but I keep taking picture of the assault despite the large antlers waiting to impale me.    

A nonchalant stroll to gain our confidence.

A casual interest.

Feigning a peaceful interest in us.   We kept our distance as not to spook the docile creature.

Acting as if he was to pass us by without indecent. All along gaining ground on us.  Oh the deceitfulness of the beast.

Then he looks away as if to show a lack of interest in us.  There in lies the deception.

Then he turns and charges at me.

Notice the rage and intent of his attack.

Notice that I keep taking picture as he comes within 6 feet of me.

A near miss

Then his retreat along with his victory of his contact with man.

Then off into the bushes probably laughing and wondering if I peed my pants.

I will admit it was awesome seeing such a majestic animal so close and in full gallop.  Hearing his huff strike the ground so close.  It wasn't until after the indecent that I thought of being impaled by the dang thing.