Elk
Individuals, couples, families and groups flock to Yellowstone National Park to view the many species of wildlife that call the Park their home. In the Park, you can see elk twelve months out of the year in and around the park headquarters at Mammoth just south of the North Gate at Gardiner. Large herds of elk can also be seen during the warmer months grazing in open meadows and in the foothills located in Yellowstone.
Elk are the most abundant large mammal found in Yellowstone National Park. Scientific evidence exists that demonstrates that these majestic animals have inhabited the Yellowstone region for the past 1,000 years. Early Native Americans called elk "Wapiti" and today both words are used to describe the huge, four-legged animals that are larger than deer but smaller than moose.
While visiting Yellowstone National Park, you are more likely to see elk in the higher elevations. Elk prefer cooler temperatures and will typically "shade up" in the pines during the heat of the day. In the early morning and early evening, you are more likely to see them, as they are most active during those times. At those times, they can be seen feeding in meadows, or in areas that have been devastated by forest fires as both areas have lush vegetation.
A male elk with have very large antlers. Elk are huge; the bulls weigh from 600 to 800 pounds or more. Typically, you will see elk in herds year-round, since they are very social animals.
Mating season for elk is in the fall from approximately September until late November. This is when you will hear bull elk "bugling" or calling to other elk. Male or bull elk are very competitive with each other over female elk during the mating season. You should never approach any wildlife, but use extreme caution during the mating season around any elk. Bulls are very protective of their females and have been known to charge and chase down spectators.
Much like the huge herds of bison that roam the Park, the elk know that they are a protected species within the boundaries of Yellowstone. Especially, in the Mammoth area you will find elk loafing around the houses, next to the government buildings and in the campgrounds. Crowds of people have little effect on them – except for humans being fun to chase!
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