Elk Bugling at Cherokee Ranch & Castle
Cherokee Ranch & Castle Executive Director James Holmes (center) pictured here with local artist Judy Bell (left) and Cherokee Ranch & Castle Special Events Coordinator Jane Hannen (right).
By Terri Wiebold; photos by Nancy Koontz
Fall is a glorious season, particularly in Colorado with the changing of the foliage and the ushering in of new weather. Wildlife respond to the change as well, and elk bugling is one fall tradition worth catching.
The popular Cherokee Ranch & Castle elk bugling sightings and sounds events were held in September. The evenings included a special presentation of the history of elk bugling, where guests learned about elk mating rituals while listening to their rutting calls. The typical bugle of the bull elk is a surprising, distinctive sound that begins deep and resonant, and becomes a prolonged high-pitched squeal before ending in a succession of grunts. “The sound was faint and off in the distance,” said Village resident Nancy Koontz, “but I could tell it was very screechy.” 
Castle Pines residents Todd and Sheri Stouffer bundled up on the terrace with binoculars in hand to view the elk herd.
Attendees took in fabulous views from the Castle terrace, while sipping a complimentary glass of wine, beer or soda. Many guests brought a picnic dinner and binoculars for enhanced viewing. Quintessential Colorado…
Joseph Rock and Deborah Roseth caught the gorgeous sunset while enjoying the elk bugling event at Cherokee Ranch & Castle.
