Rocky Mountain Elk: Fascinating Facts and Hunting Insights

The Majestic Rocky Mountain Elk: Wyoming’s Premier Big Game Species

The Rocky Mountain elk (Cervus canadensis nelsoni) is the only subspecies of elk found in Wyoming and is a staple of the state’s thriving wildlife population. Also known as Wapiti—a Native American term meaning “light-colored deer” or “white rump”—these majestic animals have made a remarkable comeback in recent decades.

Elk Population Growth in Wyoming

Wyoming’s elk population is estimated at 113,000, the highest it has been in over 50 years. These impressive numbers reflect successful conservation efforts and the critical role of hunters in wildlife management. Today, elk can be found across most of the state, including regions where they were absent just 40 years ago.

Rocky Mountain Elk: Size, Speed, and Strength

Wyoming’s bull elk can stand 5 feet tall at the shoulder and weigh up to 700 pounds, with their total height reaching 9 feet when measured from the ground to the top of their antlers. Cows are slightly smaller, weighing up to 500 pounds and standing 4.5 feet at the shoulder.

Elk are not just massive—they’re incredibly agile. A mature bull can:

• Run up to 40 mph
• Jump 8 feet vertically

Among all elk subspecies, Rocky Mountain elk boast the largest antlers, even though Roosevelt elk have bulkier bodies. Bulls shed their antlers in late winter and immediately begin growing a new set, which can grow up to an inch per day. By early September, their antlers harden as they rub them on trees and brush to prepare for the rutting season. A full set of antlers can weigh up to 40 pounds, and bulls develop powerful neck muscles to carry them as they prepare to battle for dominance.

The Sounds of the Wild: Elk Vocalizations

Elk are the most vocal big game animals in Wyoming. A herd of cows constantly communicates with chirps, mews, and squeals, while an elk’s bark signals danger.

But the most iconic elk sound is the bull’s bugle, an eerie, thrilling call that echoes through the mountains during the rut. For years, scientists puzzled over how elk produce this sound, as it is far too high-pitched for their voice box alone. The mystery was solved when researchers discovered that a bull creates the bugle by moving both his lips and nostrils simultaneously—essentially roaring and whistling at the same time.

Elk Rutting Season in Wyoming

Elk rut in Wyoming begins in early September and lasts until mid-October, with peak breeding activity occurring between mid-September and October 10th.

One of the most fascinating elk behaviors during the rut is the use of wallows. Bulls locate shallow pools or mud holes and urinate in them to create a strong scent that attracts cows. They then roll in the mud to coat themselves in the scent before heading out to gather their harems. While this behavior is essential for elk, hunters who have field-dressed a rutting bull know that the smell is unforgettable, and cleaning mud-covered knives is no easy task!

Elk Hunting: A Conservation Success Story

The resurgence of Rocky Mountain elk is one of the greatest success stories in modern wildlife management. Thanks to hunters and conservation efforts, elk populations continue to thrive, providing exciting and sustainable hunting opportunities.

Hunting elk is an addictive and unforgettable experience—once you’ve heard the bugle of a bull in the crisp Wyoming air, you’ll be hooked for life. If you’re ready to plan your next Wyoming elk hunting adventure, contact SNS Outfitter & Guides at 307-266-4229.