Rare creature spotted in CO mountains is 1-in-100,000 sight. See stunning photos
A unique creature has been getting attention in the Colorado mountains — “for good reason,” officials said.
In a May 12 post on Facebook, Colorado Parks and Wildlife shared photos of a cow elk with a rare piebald coat that has been spotted around Estes Park, the town just outside of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Photos show the unusually-colored elk with a typically-colored one behind her.
“This rare genetic trait occurs in about 1 out of every 100,000 elk and causes a mostly white coat of hair with some patches of brown,” the agency said. “If you’re lucky enough to catch a glimpse of her, remember to give her lots of space!”
A few people shared photos and videos of her in the comments.
“I saw her a couple weeks ago,” someone said. “Such an amazing experience!!”
Several people also shared that they hoped the rare creature would be protected from wolves or hunters.
“How stunningly beautiful,” someone said.
Estes Park is about a 70-mile drive northwest from Denver.
This story was originally published May 13, 2025 at 4:24 PM with the headline "Rare creature spotted in CO mountains is 1-in-100,000 sight. See stunning photos."
