Elk Returns To Sunol: Pleasanton Photo Of The Day

SUNOL, CA — Rupert the Elk is back! A few weeks ago, Billy Stubblefield saw this rare elk grazing along Highway 84 near the construction zone fencing of the westbound lane toward the 680 South/Sunol exits.

Last week, he saw the elk he’s named Rupert grazing in roughly the same spot.

A local conservationist told Patch that while the nearby Pleasanton Sunol Ridges are full of wildlife, elk are more plentiful near Mt. Hamilton. Elk tend to follow cattle, she said.

There are currently approximately 5,700 tule elk throughout California in numerous herds, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Rupert seems to be a bit more of a loner.

Thank you for sharing, Billy! If you’d like to share any photos - rare wildlife or otherwise - email michael.wittner@patch.com.