Elk
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Wildlife //
Elk are not only famous for their bugle call during the rut season in the fall, but also for their top two canine ivories which scientists believe are remnants of saber-like tusks from ancestral species of elk.
- You can find elk just west of Big Sky near the Madison River or in Yellowstone National Park.
- Their favorite habitat includes: Mountain meadows, Grasslands, Burns, Logged areas
- They prefer moist areas in the summer.
- Your best chances of seeing elk along with any other wildlife is either at dawn or dusk when animals are most active.
Overview
Of all the big game animals in North America, the Rocky Mountain elk – or Wapiti as they are known in Native American circles – engenders the most respect of area locals and outdoorsmen. Its stately stature, large prominent antlers, and eerie high pitched mating squeal in the fall, make this animal the favorite of visitors to the region.
Interesting Facts
- Weight ranges from 325 to 1,1000 lbs
- A group of Elk is called a gang.
- A group of female Elk who are guarded by one fertile male is called a harem.
- A yearling bull elk is called a spike.
- Only bull elk have antlers, which they shed every March. Growth of new antlers begins in May.
- Calves are born in the spring. They can stand when they are just 20 minutes old.
Best Places for Viewing Elk
Elk are most frequently found in mountainous areas in and around Yellowstone National Park and the Madison Range just west of Big Sky, MT. They frequent river bottoms and grasslands as well. The best time for viewing elk is dawn and dusk.
Respecting Wildlife
- Use only roadside pullouts when viewing any animal.
- Do not approach any wildlife! 25 yards distance between you and elk is a good rule of thumb.
- Please do not feed wildlife.
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