California’s elk need protection. The state needs to try harder to bring them back.

Elk are California’s largest land mammal. At 500 pounds with three-foot antlers, their sheer size inspires wonder. And for anyone who has watched cows and their calves emerge from the trees to cross an open meadow, or heard bulls bugling during the annual fall rut, the majesty of these animals is unparalleled.

Today the state’s three elk species face an uncertain future.