NC Wildlife to assist elk with swing stuck in antlers

An elk with a child’s swing tangled in its antlers was spotted by Maggie Valley residents on Friday, Nov. 28, prompting a response from local wildlife officials, ABC Asheville affiliate WLOS reported.

The Haywood County Sheriff’s Office and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) are aware of the situation and are working together to help the elk safely. Authorities said there was no immediate harm to the animal.

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“We are aware of the moose with a swing set tangled in its antlers,” the Haywood County Sheriff’s Office said in a social media post on Nov. 30. “Our team has been in contact with NC Wildlife, and with the help of wildlife officers and an NC Wildlife biologist, they are working on a plan to help this elk safely in the morning.”

Gina Zachary, public information officer for the Haywood County Sheriff’s Office, expressed gratitude for the community’s concern and NC Wildlife’s quick response.

“We care deeply about our local elk population – they are a valuable and iconic part of Maggie Valley,” she said.

The Wildlife Resources Commission provides guidelines on its website for observing elk and reporting distress or unauthorized interactions with wildlife. They encourage the public to contact NCWRC law enforcement with any wildlife violations.

The NC Wildlife Resources Commission also contacted WLOS on Monday and said a biologist was on his way to the elk and would also provide updates.

Efforts are underway to ensure elk receive safe assistance, with wildlife officials closely monitoring the situation. Community involvement was crucial in resolving the problem quickly.

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