See Gigantic Elk Tower Over Horses In Polite Fence Conversation

suffolk punch horse
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Written by Kirstin Harrington

Updated: June 14, 2023

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Just 70 miles from Denver, Estes Park is a haven for outdoor activity. There are no restrictions on the types of activities visitors of Colorado experience here because it is surrounded by protected territories like Roosevelt National Forest and Rocky Mountain National Park.

Not only are there stunning views all around, but Estes Park is also known for its wildlife. People from all over the world travel here to watch the wildlife during each season throughout the year. Others have the honor of calling this paradise their home. 

One Estes Park resident caught an incredible interaction in their backyard. This individual has horses and loves to watch them from the comfort of their warm home. During a regular afternoon, they spotted elk on the other side of the fence.

American Elk in front of the Rocky Mountains

American Elk in front of the Rocky Mountains

Although people think elk are docile, they can be quite aggressive. Thankfully for this Colorado resident and his horses, these elk just wanted to say hello to nearby animals! At first, it looks like one of the horses isn’t so keen on the idea of these unknown visitors stopping by. 

Running away is a horse‘s preferred means of self-defense against predators or dangerous situations. Some people think that horses are descended from little creatures that had to flee from predators in order to stay alive. The one in this video appeared to spit or jut its head forward toward the elk. 

The equine leans his body further over the fence to get a good whiff of the elk. The horse has a more acute sense of smell than humans, but it is less sensitive than canines. For example, horses can utilize their sense of smell to recognize other horses, humans, predators, and food. 

Even though we try to cover up medication in rewards that taste good, horses can still detect it in feed. Horses can exhibit an absurd fear of some odors, such as the potent aromas connected to pigs.

Making a New Friend

Additionally, horses have significantly better hearing than humans do. Horses use their hearing primarily for three purposes: to detect noises, to pinpoint the sound’s location, and to give sensory information that enables the horse to identify what the sounds are. They may have heard the elk coming before seeing them! 

With an additional elk grazing in the background and another horse near the fence, it seems as if these pairs could make great friends. A comment on the viral video reads, “Horses are so sociable, they make a bond with any creature. It’s one of the things that makes them so easy to love.”

We can’t help but agree! Wild animals are often very defensive, especially when approached by an unfamiliar creature. The respect these two species give each other during this moment is truly remarkable. 

Another viewer points out that the stunning landscape with wildlife would make a great holiday card! 


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About the Author

Kirstin Harrington

Kirstin is a writer at A-Z Animals primarily covering animals, news topics, fun places, and helpful tips. Kirstin has been writing on a variety of topics for over five years. She has her real estate license, along with an associates degree in another field. A resident of Minnesota, Kirstin treats her two cats (Spook and Finlay) like the children they are. She never misses an opportunity to explore a thrift store with a coffee in hand, especially if it’s a cold autumn day!

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