Well folks, it seems that the wild nightlife of Sioux Falls just got a bit more, well, wild. Our city was graced by the hoofprints of an unexpected visitor this week, and let’s just say that it wasn’t your average raccoon rummaging through the trash cans. Could you ever imagine a bull elk prancing through the parking lot of Airway Auto Service? Us neither.
But that’s exactly what happened, and you’d better believe Tom Broadbent, the owner of Airway Auto Service, almost blew a gasket when he found out. Ah, just a usual day in the wild west of South Dakota, right?
Adding to the comic relief, the plot thickens with a phone call. Broadbent was informed about his new ‘customer’ by a total stranger. What a way to start the day. You know, with a healthy dose of disbelief followed by a quick hunt for evidence.
And speaking of evidence, you’d think an elk would be decent enough to leave some sort of memorable imprint, wouldn’t you? Alas, this furry Casanova left only faint tracks around some trailers parked nearby. Imagine presenting that to a jury: “Ladies and Gentlemen, may I present these vague hoofprints – the silent herald of our prankster bull elk.”
Apparently, our visitor was trying to find a way out, presumably less than thrilled about the lack of parking space available or perhaps just struggling with Sioux Falls’ intersection rules. And while we’re on the subject, it’s only fair to elucidate that the city’s Big Sioux River diversion channel runs close by. So the elk might’ve thought he was signing up for a lakeside view and not a car service. Classic mix-up.
Now, the sighting might invoke some questions, considering the conventional Sioux Falls wildlife we’re used to involves the occasional coyote, the infrequent moose, and the ever-so-reliable raccoon brigade. An elk? That’s a new one.
According to an animal expert, it’s mating season, so this young bull may have been scouting for a potential mate. Sorry ladies, it seems he wasn’t interested in a tune-up after all, just some companionship.
On a more serious note, if this elk is indeed from a domestic herd, a missing report should be filed to the state. So, folks, if you spot him, do report in. Sioux Falls, it seems our love-struck elk isn’t just breaking hearts, he’s making headlines too.
Remember, folks, this is why we check our security cameras and remember to lock our doors at night. You never know when an elk might decide to come a-knockin’.