01/07/09

METALINE FALLS, Wash. (AP) _ Six wild elk that took refuge from
winter weather in an old hay storage barn were killed when the roof
collapsed.

The state Fish and Wildlife Department said 20 elk had sought
refuge in the barn on Tuesday. The area has been pounded by more
than 6 feet of snow this winter, and dozens of roofs have
collapsed.

Five of the elk died instantly and one suffered a broken back
and had to be euthanized.

Officers said it was rare for elk to be so desperate that they
would enter a barn.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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