LAKE QUINAULT — Photographers Chuck and Grace Bartlett have spent 20 years stalking Roosevelt elk in the wilds of the North Olympic Peninsula, and Saturday they will share their experiences at the Roosevelt Elk Festival at Lake Quinault Lodge.
Chuck Bartlett said photographing Roosevelt elk is one of the most challenging assignments for the duo, who specialize in wildlife photography.
There is still time to sign up for the event, which is $25 for adults and $10 for youth under age 18.
Lake Quinault Lodge is located at 345 South Shore Road, south of Kalaloch, just off U.S. Highway 101.
The Roosevelt elk live primarily on the western side of the Olympic Peninsula, with a small herd in the Sequim-Dungeness Valley.
The western slope elk herd is the largest unmanaged herd of Roosevelt elk in the world.
Protection of the elk was a main impetus for the creation of the Mount Olympus National Monument in 1909.
President Theodore Roosevelt signed the proclamation creating the protected range and breeding grounds of the elk just before leaving office, and the name, Olympic elk, was changed to Roosevelt elk at that time.
President Franklin D. Roosevelt designated the area as Olympic National Park after visiting the Peninsula in 1937.
Bull elk, even with their great size and massive antlers, are capable of disappearing like Sasquatch into the dense rain forest; but sometimes they are too close for comfort.
Bartlett recalled he was once in the path of an elk that was being pursued by a very intent cougar.
“They passed within about three feet of me,” he said, but they were so close — and moving so fast –that he was not able to capture the moment.
Bartlett said one of the things that keeps the couple from Lynnwood traveling back to the remote West End is the quest for the elusive, perfect shot.
They came close two years ago, when they captured two bull elk fighting, antlers clashing in battle.
“We were able to film it for about 10 minutes.
“It was pretty spectacular,” he said.
The Bartletts will give a presentation of their work photographing elk and other wildlife as part of the Roosevelt Elk Festival, taking place all day Saturday at the Lake Quinault Lodge.
The day will begin with registration from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m.
Talks and presenters include “Olympic National Park Elk Management” with park representatives Patti Happe and Kirt Jenkins, and “Washington State Elk Management” with Scott Harris.
The highlight for many participants will no doubt be the afternoon elk viewing field trip, led by Chuck Bartlett, Happe, Jenkins and Harris.
To register, phone the lodge at 360-288-2900 or visit www.olympicnational parks.com and click on “upcoming events” under the “play” tab.
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Features Editor Marcie Miller can be reached at 360-417-3550 or marcie.miller@peninsuladaily news.com.