Long-missing radio-monitored elk found

CALM LAKE, Wis., March 13 (UPI) -- The first radio-collared wild elk born in Wisconsin has been found after a decade-long disappearance.

Elk cow No. 26 became Wisconsin's first radio-collared wild elk calf in the Calm Lake herd founded in 1995, but went missing in 1998 when her collar broke off, the Madison (Wis.) Capital Times reported Wednesday.

"It is great to know she is still alive, but (it's) a mystery as to where she's been keeping herself," Department of Natural Resources biologist Laine Stowell said.

Wildlife experts reportedly are in the process of putting radio collars on elk around Calm Lake in conjunction with the DNR's continued observation of the herd.

DNR experts, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and Calm Lake-area volunteers gather each winter to collar elk and monitor their health, the Times reported.