The Elk, or Wapiti (Cervus canadensis), is the largest deer in North America after the moose. Adult bull elk can weigh as much as 408kg (900lb) and 1.5m tall at the shoulder (5ft) depending on the subspecies.
There are 6 subspecies of elk, 2 of which a extinct. They include: The Rocky Elk (pictured), Roosevelt's Elk, Tule Elk, Manitoban Elk, Merriams Elk (extinct), and Eastern (Extinct).
Nice rack!
Every year a bull elk will grow a new set of antlers. These antlers can weigh up to 18kg (40lb) and are an important assest during the rut.
During the rut, the time of year when males are competing for mates, cow elk and their young will form harems wit one or two mature males.To maintain their harem bulls will fight rivals, sometimes to the death. To advertise to other elk males will produce loud clear calls and soak themselves in urine. The elk will then mate in the Fall and and calves will be born around June.
checking out some lovely lady rumps
The elk pictured below was trying to poke a few holes in a car that got too close during the rut. At this time of year elk can become extremely aggressive and protective of their harem. It is important that they are shown respect.
Historically, more than 10 million elk are believed to have roamed the United States and Canada, however, after the arrival of Europeans that number has dropped to about one million. This is most likely due to over hunting and habitat destruction.
make sure you get my good side
The elk in these images was photographed during one of our adventures in Jasper, Alberta.
The information in this post was obtained from:
The Canadian Encyclopedia and RMEF
All images in this post were taken by and remain the Copyright of Ryan Sault unless stated otherwise. You can see more photos at:
website: https://saultphotography.com/
Instagram: 