Cow and Bull Elk in Field
by Flees Photos
Title
Cow and Bull Elk in Field
Artist
Flees Photos
Medium
Photograph - Home Decor And Giclee Wall Art By Chris Flees
Description
In this photograph the cow elk is in the foreground continuing to rest and the bull elk is in the background grazing.
facts about elk:
Elk are one of the largest species of deer. Adult males, known as bulls, can weigh between 600 to 1,100 pounds (270 to 500 kilograms) and stand about 4.5 to 5 feet (1.4 to 1.5 meters) tall at the shoulder.
There are several subspecies of elk found in different regions of the world, including the North American elk (also known as wapiti) and the European elk (known as moose in North America).
Male elk have impressive antlers that can grow up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) long. Antlers are shed and regrown each year. They are primarily used for display and during the mating season, or rut, to establish dominance and attract females.
Elk are herbivores and primarily feed on grasses, leaves, bark, twigs, and shrubs. They have a multi-chambered stomach that allows them to digest tough plant materials efficiently.
During the mating season, male elk produce a vocalization known as bugling. Bugling is a loud, high-pitched call that is used to attract females and intimidate rival males. The bugle is a distinctive sound and is often associated with the fall season in elk habitats.
Elk are known for their agility and can run at speeds up to 35 miles per hour (56 kilometers per hour). They are also excellent swimmers and can traverse bodies of water when necessary.
Elk are social animals and live in herds. The composition of the herds can vary throughout the year. Bulls often form bachelor groups outside the mating season, while cows (females) and their calves form separate herds.
The gestation period for elk is about 8 to 9 months. Female elk typically give birth to a single calf, although twins are possible but rare. Calves are born with spots on their fur, which fade as they grow older.
Elk are native to North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. In North America, they can be found in various habitats, including forests, meadows, and mountainous regions.
Elk are important ecologically and play a role in shaping their environment. Through grazing, they can impact the vegetation composition and structure of their habitats, influencing plant growth and providing resources for other wildlife.
These facts showcase the impressive characteristics and ecological significance of elk, which are magnificent creatures in their own right.
Uploaded
March 6th, 2014
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