Elk

deer family · giant antlers · North America

Second largest deer. Elk are the second biggest deer species in the whole world, only beaten by moose. These incredible animals weigh as much as a car and can stand taller than a person.

Forest wanderers. Elk live in forests and grasslands across North America, and also in parts of Central and East Asia. They love cool mountain areas and green valleys where they can find plenty of plants to eat.

Massive antlers. Male elk grow enormous antlers that can weigh up to 40 pounds and have many branches. They shed these giant antlers every year and grow new ones, which is an amazing ability.

Bugling calls. During mating season, male elk make loud, echoing calls called bugles that sound almost like a trumpet. These bugling sounds can travel far through the forest to attract females and challenge other males.

Name mix-up. The word elk was originally used for moose in Europe, but North American colonists gave the name to these giant deer instead. So the same word means different animals depending on where you are.