Bull Elk Damages Vehicle Near Myakka River State Park

A bull elk damaged a vehicle and shattered its side window on September 18 near Myakka River State Park. Residents have nicknamed the animal "Crash" or "Smash." The elk, described as being in an area where a group of cows were congregating, approached a stationary Honda. The animal then charged the vehicle, butting the car with its antlers and breaking the rear passenger-side window.

Witnesses captured the incident on video. A man in the footage exclaimed, "Oh, oh, oh, that’s not good," as the elk struck the car. A woman in the vehicle stated, "I’m out of here, I’m done," before the car drove away. The elk then returned to its group.

Elk are not native to Florida. The incident occurs during the local elk rutting season, which typically runs from mid-September through mid-October. During this period, bull elk are known to be more territorial and bold as they compete for mates.