Elk

The elk is a large deer species, known scientifically as *Cervus canadensis*.

The elk is a large deer species (Cervus canadensis) native to North America and parts of Asia. In North American usage, elk refers to this species, whereas in Europe the term 'elk' commonly refers to the moose (Alces alces). Elk are herbivorous mammals that graze and browse on grasses, shrubs, leaves, and other vegetation.

Classification

Elk are mammals in the deer family, Cervidae, and belong to the genus Cervus. The North American elk is the same species as the wapiti, Cervus canadensis.

Description

Elk are large, long-legged deer with males that grow antlers each year. They are sexually dimorphic, with bulls generally much larger than cows. Adult males can exceed 300 kg and stand roughly 1.2 to 1.5 m at the shoulder, though size varies by sex and subspecies. Males are called bulls, females are cows, and young are calves.

Diet and behaviour

Elk are herbivores that feed on grasses, sedges, forbs, leaves, bark, and twigs. They are often most active during dawn and dusk and may form herds.

Habitat and range

Elk inhabit a wide range of open and wooded habitats, including forests, meadows, shrublands, and mountain valleys. Their native range includes western North America and parts of eastern Asia.

Relation to moose

In Canadian and North American usage, elk and moose are different species. Moose are Alces alces and are larger, with broader, palmate antlers and a different body shape. In Canada, the term 'elk' always refers to Cervus canadensis rather than moose.