Colorado Playground Closed After Second Elk Attack on Child

Another child has been attacked by a cow elk in Estes Park, Colorado. This is the second incident involving a child and an elk in a week in the Northern Colorado town. The latest incident happened on Monday afternoon at approximately 1:30 p.m. when a 4-year-old boy was attacked near the Stanley Park Playground.

According to 9 News, the boy was playing when a cow elk charged and stomped him multiple times. The cow elk was protecting two calves that were hidden in the rocky area near the park's playground. The boy was taken to the hospital for his injuries where he was treated and released the same day.

RELATED: Girl Riding Bicycle Attacked By a Cow Elk in Estes Park

Colorado Parks and Wildlife responded to the latest attack and found multiple cow elk in the area. The officer hazed the elk using bean bag rounds to get them to leave the park and move to another area. Due to the proximity of the elk and the park, the playground has been closed indefinitely. Parts of Lake Estes Loop Trail have also been closed and Colorado Parks and Wildlife have put up warning signs regarding aggressive elk in the area.

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While newborn calves are immobile, cow elk can become aggressive towards perceived threats. People are encouraged to be aware while recreating outdoors that calves could be hidden nearby. Cow elk can charge from many yards away. Please respect trail closures and signs warning of aggressive elk. Never disturb young wildlife, even if they appear to be alone, as the mother is most likely nearby searching for food.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife said in a press release after the second attack on a child in less than a week. See more on how you can stay safe from elk during calving season in Colorado by visiting cpw.state.co.us.