The folks in Benezette, Pa., are apparently split in their like/dislike of the elk that have been transplanted into their county-- Elk County, of course.
The elk are big and beautiful, but not a novelty anymore. Tourists clog up town to see them, especially in fall.
The elk graze, wandering the small town much like dogs or cats. Vegetable gardens are surrounded by tall fences and flower gardens are non-existent. Why bother with hungry 1,000 pound elk wandering the neighborhood?
This is the time of year that the locals find Christmas decorations hanging on elk antlers, including whole strings of lights. John Germer, a retired PP&L worker from Mount Joy, built a log home here two years ago and still enjoys watching the elk, sometimes in his front yard. He remembers seeing backyard swings tangled in their antlers, a fishing net, and all kinds of Christmas things. "They're very curious and nosey," he says.
Fred, however, is a neighborhood favorite. A 17-year old elk wearing a yellow collar with a big 36 on it, Fred saunters throughout town, taking a break anywhere that suits him. His antlers weigh nearly 20 pounds on each side. Last year's set decorates the bar at the Benezette Hotel.
Like any other town, much is private property. Keep off where posted, and obey signs. And DON'T park in the middle of the street to get pictures of Fred. The Benezette Hotel has a good-size parking lot and they'll probably let you park there while you wander through town. Be courteous and ask first.
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