Elk

The elk is one of the largest species of the deer family, and one of the largest land mammals in North America. Apart from the moose, the only other member of the deer family to rival the elk in size is the south Asian sambar.

Elk range in forest and forest-edge habitat, feeding on grasses, plants, leaves, and bark. Male elk engage in ritualized mating behaviors during the rut, including posturing, sparring, and bugling, a loud series of vocalizations that establishes dominance over other males and attracts females.

Male elk keep thier antlers for more than half of the year. While the male els has his antlers, he is much less likely to group with other male elk. Antlers are a means of defense, so when bulls shed their antlers, they are much more likely to be found in groups as a means to cooperate while fending off predators.