Species · GBIF taxon 8600904
Elk
Cervus canadensisAlso known as Wapiti, Rocky Mountain Elk, Manitoban Elk, Roosevelt Elk
Elk are majestic, social giants of the deer family, easily recognized by their massive antlers, light brown bodies, and distinct pale rump patches. During the autumn breeding season, bulls emit a haunting, high-pitched bugle that echoes across valleys to attract mates and challenge rivals. They gather in large, matriarchal herds for most of the year, migrating between high mountain meadows in summer and sheltered valleys in winter.
HerbivoreMigratorySocial
Licensed referenceMembeth / CC0 · cc0
- diet
- Grasses, sedges, tree bark, twigs, and shrubs
- family
- Cervidae
- threats
- Habitat fragmentation, vehicle collisions, chronic wasting disease, and climate change
- life Span
- 10 to 13 years in the wild
LC
Large and unpredictable; maintain a distance of at least 25 yards, especially during autumn rut and spring calving.
Bulls during the autumn rut and cows protecting spring calves can charge and trample humans, causing severe injury.
Never approach closely; back away slowly if an elk stares directly at you or raises its head.- Listen for bugling: Visit valleys at dawn or dusk in September and October to hear the haunting mating calls.
- Watch the ears: An elk with ears pinned back and head raised high is showing signs of agitation.
- Use binoculars: Observe herd dynamics from a safe distance to avoid disrupting their natural feeding behaviors.