Elk--Physical Characteristics

It is important to understand the physical characteristics and tracks of an Elk before going Hunting. Without this valuable information, the success of your Hunting adventure will be diminished.

Like many animals, males take on a different physical appearance than their female counterpart. The male Elk has a dark brown head, neck, and belly, while the sides and the back of this large animal are grayish brown with the yellowish bordered rump patch with a dark brownish stripe throughout the winter months. In the summer, the coat becomes much thinner and turns deep reddish brown. Because their coats shed in the summer, they appear more sleek and muscular. On the other hand, the female Elk is somewhat lighter in color. However, both male and female Elk display a heavy, dark mane. The geographical location filled with warm summers and cold winters play a major factor in Elk's thick winter coat and thinner summer coat, which they shed in late summer and spring.

On average, an adult male Elk measures nearly five foot high at the shoulder and typically weighs 600-800 lbs. However, a large Bull Elk can weigh up to 1,200 lbs. This large animal is very quick for its size. Elk have evolved as distanced runners and are strong swimmers as well; even a calf can swim over a mile! They can run 30 mph for long periods and 40 mph for shorter periods. However, this is not where their athletic abilities end. Elk have adapted well to their rugged terrain and are known to jump vertically 8 to 10 feet.

Elk Tracks

The physical characteristics of an Elk will give you great idea as to what one looks like on the Hunting field, however, you may be asking yourself, what do the tracks of this animal look like? Have no doubt, Elk tracks are not hard to distinguish, primarily because of their size-an adult track averages 4 ½ inches in length and are larger and rounder than that of the Whitetail Deer. Elk tracks are also different than the large and blocky tracks of adult cattle.

Elk Hunting Benefits

Elk Hunting is an enjoyable sport. While Trophy Elk are very difficult to Hunt because of their acute sensory abilities, cow Elk are for the avid and occasional Hunter. Don't be discouraged if you don't capture a Trophy Elk, because cow Elk are becoming increasingly popular and make for a delectable, high-protein, low-fat, flavorful red meat. If you're looking for the perfect place to Elk Hunt, come over to High Mountain Whitetails. We will offer you an Elk Hunting experience that you will never forget. Our Elk Hunting adventures are great for beginners as well. Contact us today and start your next Hunting adventure--it's sure to be memorable!