water. Still or flowing?

[wawhitey]

Pretty straight forward question. Do thirsty elk exhibit a preference one way or another, still water like a small pond, or the moving cleaner water of a small stream? If both are available in an area

[Gselkhunter]

I see them use both but a word I would add, secluded.

[ElkNut1]

Still water.

ElkNut1

[Swede]

I know elk will water at the river, but I never place my stand there. I find a small water hole, well back in the timber. No doubt, they prefer still, quiet water. Elk do not care if the water is clean or sanitary. If a water hole stinks of elk, that is a great place to wait to ambush them. They care about security. Elk in a pool are fun to watch, Some are playing. Some are just cooling off, while others are getting a drink. Bulls, including spikes, more than cows will often approach a water hole with great caution. Some elk will look around and take a drink, then look around some more before finishing their drink. These elk are on high alert at a watering place which reminds us why a secluded quiet spot works better for them than an open running stream.