Elk

Elk are an extirpated species along the Missouri National Rec. River but were abundant when Lewis and Clark journeyed up the river in 1804.

NPS Photo

Scientific Name

Cervus elaphus

Identification

• 700-1000 lbs
• An elk’s fur is thick and can range from copper brown to light tan or beige in color.
• Only males have antlers, which grow and shed each year.

Range and Habitat

Before European settlement, elk lived throughout much of the United States. They were abundant on the prairies of the Great Plains during the Lewis and Clark Expedition (1804-1806) and were frequently hunted by the crew. However, their populations declined dramatically with western expansion, and they were extirpated–meaning they were no longer found–in South Dakota by the late 1800’s.

Today, elk populations in South Dakota and Nebraska can be found primarily in the western parts of each state. These elk can find a home in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows and secluded valleys.

Diet

Elk are herbivores. They feed primarily on grasses but will also browse on shrubs, small branches, leaves and acorns. They will even eat bark, if no other food is available or is sparse.

Fun Facts

• North American Elk are one of the largest deer species in the world!
• Their antlers reach their peak size when the elk are 11-12 years old.
• The Shawnee word “wapiti” which means “white deer” or “white-rumped deer” is sometimes used to refer to elk.
• There are four subspecies of North American elk in the United States

 

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