Rocky Mountain elk

Rocky Mountain elk are the only elk in Utah and have been the state mammal since 1971. Both sexes have a light-brown body, dark brown head, neck and legs, and a cream-colored rump. Bulls average about 700 pounds and 5 feet at the shoulder; cows are a little smaller. Only bulls grow antlers. While a new set grows, it is bone fed by blood vessels in a covering of fine hair called velvet. Before the breeding season the velvet dries up and the bull rubs it off on brush, which leaves the antlers in place. The antlers themselves drop off in winter or early spring, after the rut, and a new set grows from the bony bases on the skull, so a big rack is regrown each year.

Elk are found in mountain habitat throughout Utah. In summer they live high, usually between 6,000 and 10,000 feet, and favor aspen forest for food and shelter. In late fall most move down to winter range with less snow, gathering in valley bottoms and on south-facing slopes. From early September through mid-October, bulls bugle and gather groups of cows. The loud call draws cows and warns rival bulls off.

Elk usually avoid people but can be aggressive toward people and dogs, especially during the rut. An agitated elk raises its head, lays its ears back and flares its nostrils. If you find a calf alone, keep your distance and leave it; the cow is usually nearby. Feeding elk is strongly discouraged.