Elk deaths

Discussion in 'Wildlife in the Garden' started by 2ofus, Jan 1, 2016.

  1. 2ofus

    2ofus Hardy Maple

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    I was so sad when I read in the newspaper about 10 elk that, due to hunger, wandered into a cemetery near Twin Falls, Id. and ate some of the Yew that was planted there and died. I knew it was poisonous to pets but didn't realize that it applies to some wild animals also. I guess, since yew does not naturally grow here, that the elk wasn't aware it shouldn't be eaten. The caretakers of the cemetery removed and safely destroyed the yews the same day. A sad reminder to be careful what we plant.
     
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  2. mart

    mart Strong Ash

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    You are so right !
     
  3. Netty

    Netty Chaotic Gardener Plants Contributor

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    Oh my gosh, that is so sad! :smt087
     
  4. eileen

    eileen Resident Taxonomist Staff Member Moderator Plants Contributor

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    Terrible news 2ofus. Those poor elk must have been at desperation point to even consider wandering into the cemetery. I'm glad the yews have all gone now so that the same kind of thing can't happen again.
     



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  5. Droopy

    Droopy Slug Slaughterer Plants Contributor

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    Oh dear. I know Taxus is poisonous for horses and small deer, so I guess that goes for all plant eaters then. What a shame, poor elk.
     
  6. Sherry8

    Sherry8 I Love Birds!

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    So sorry...it makes me sad seeing any dead animals. We see plenty of road kill (that gets hit by vehicles) and I feel bad.
     
  7. Tooty2shoes

    Tooty2shoes Hardy Maple

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    oh my. That is sad. Glad to hear that they got rid of the yews.
     

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