Roosevelt Elk (Wapiti)

Scientific Name

Cervus elaphus roosevelti

size

Height. at shoulder 4½-5'
Length. 8-10'
Weight. males 600-1000 lbs. " females 350-650 lbs.

characteristics

Adaptations/Coloration. brown or tan above " darker underparts " rump patch & tail yellowish brown " males dark brown mane on throat
Antlers. males large, many-tined antlers up to 5' " females lack antlers

behavior

crepuscular " during rut males rub antlers on saplings & shrubs " antlers used as weapons in fights for females " dig wallows in ground with hooves & antlers

reproduction/life span

Breeding Season. "rut" late Aug-early Oct
Gestation. ~8½ months " cows leave herd to give birth to 1 calf (twins rare)
Calf. 30-35 lbs. " cow & calf return to herd ~1 wk

diet

primarily grazers " many plants

habitat/range

coastal & Cascade ranges of Pacific Northwest " summer found in high open mountain meadows " winter lower wooded slopes, often dense woods

status

secure " protected & regulated by ODFW

oregon zoo exhibit

Cascades