Bison Loop Road in Elk Island National Park reopened Wednesday for visitors to view wildlife during the bison rut. The rest of the park remains temporarily closed while crews work on flood-related cleanup and hazardous trees. During the bison rut, or breeding season, mature males are more alert and aggressive while they compete for the attention of female bison. Visitors are asked to stay in their vehicle at all times, and to slow down and obey posted speed limits. Normally it is recommended that visitors keep a 100-metre distance from bison, but during breeding season, it’s advised to double or triple this distance. Visitors are also asked to prevent bison jams by keeping traffic moving at a slow, consistent pace when viewing bison. Elk Island National Park closed early last week due to flooding, which made some roadways impassable and downed trees. Parks Canada said crews are working to reopen the remaining areas of the park as soon as possible with select locations anticipated to open to visitors later this week. An update on the park’s status will be made Friday.
