Bull Elk
Elk, or Wapiti, grow their antlers fresh every summer and shed them in the winter.
Photo: William H. Mullins
2011
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The elk or wapiti (Cervus canadensis) is one of the largest species of deer in the world and one of the largest land mammals in North America and eastern Asia. Elk are similar to the Red Deer (Cervus elaphus) found in Europe, of which they were long believed to be a subspecies. However, evidence from a 2004 study of the mitochondrial DNA indicates they are a distinct species.
Male elk have large antlers which are shed each year. Males also engage in ritualized mating behaviors during the rut (mating season), including posturing, antler wrestling (sparring), and bugling, a loud series of vocalizations which establishes dominance over other males and attracts females.
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