Elk has metal barstool around neck, NM photo shows. Officials’ decision called ‘cruel’
People are outraged after an elk was spotted with a metal barstool stuck around its neck — and New Mexico wildlife officials decided to leave it be.
“We are aware of the elk with the chair on his head,” the Ruidoso Police Department said Saturday, Dec. 28, on Facebook with a photo of the elk. “New Mexico Game and Fish has evaluated the elk. They have determined that it is able to move around, eat, and drink.”
The police department didn’t say whether the wildlife agency would re-evaluate or remove the barstool another time. It directed those with concerns to the state’s Department of Game and Fish.
That statement didn’t seem good enough for most people who chimed in on the post.
Some chalked it up to the department not showing enough concern for the wild animal’s well-being.
“I have determined they are too lazy to try and remedy the situation!” someone said.
“So you just leave it be??? That’s crazy!!!” someone said. “Help the elk get free from that stool!!!”
“That poor animal. Probably can’t get comfortable,” someone said. “It definitely can become an issue. Take it off.”
Others were simply sad about the elk’s predicament.
“Imagine the poor thing trying to sleep,” someone said.
“It’s metal. Won’t just fall apart. What a burden. How sad is that.”
Some commenters thought the department’s decision was “cruel.”
“Really is cruel to leave that,” someone said.
“That’s cruel…period!” someone else said.
“That is an unacceptable response,” another person said. “Do better.”
Ruidoso police didn’t say how the barstool got on the elk’s head or how long it has been there.
Ruidoso is about a 190-mile drive southeast from Albuquerque.
This story was originally published December 30, 2024 at 10:03 AM with the headline "Elk has metal barstool around neck, NM photo shows. Officials’ decision called ‘cruel’."
