NPSpecies

Park Species Detail: The last know wild elk in Nebraska was seen in 1880. In 1913, the elk were re-established in Nebraska at Fort Niobrara, the source being the same Mr. Gilbert that donated the bison. They have been maintained under fence since that time. Historically elk were maintained on the north side of the Niobrara River with the bison. In 1959, they were moved to a small, 1100 acre pasture south of the river which is shared with the bison for part of the year. In 1970, the elk were again allowed access to the north bank of the river. Source: John M. Bartholow, 1977 thesis from Colorado State University entitled, Fort Niobrara Refuge: Big Game Management Modeling.