Early European explorers in North America, particularly in Virginia where there were no moose, called the wapiti “elk” because of its size and resemblance to familiar-looking deer like the red deer. The moose resembled the “German elk” (the moose of continental Europe), which was less familiar to the British colonists.

moose

The elk and moose might be two different species, but they all belong to the same family. In Europe, the word elk is used to refer to the moose (Alces alces) whereas Wapiti (Cervus Canadensis) is used for elk.

Though they might not appear threatening, elk can be aggressive and attack without warning. In the spring calving season (May – June) female elk aggressively defend their young. During the fall mating season (Aug – Sept), male elk are particularly belligerent. Do not approach elk in any season as they are dangerous.

Spring: In the spring, Cow elk are especially fierce because they are protective of their calves. Around springtime, they will hide calves near cars or buildings. They also charge cars and people who get too close.

“Predators are wary of humans and may not come as close to developed areas,” says Veress. “That said, elk are very protective of calves and will act aggressively toward humans who get too close.” Veress has firsthand experience of this from an encounter after leaving her office one afternoon.

Although elk, deer, moose, and caribou are not actively aggressive towards humans, they are large and powerful. When they’re scared or stressed, they will react to defend themselves – and that can be very dangerous for anyone who gets in their way. Even a dead elk might kill you if you do not watch your step.

Don’t touch it or pet it. If you touch it, you may leave your scent on the animal, which could draw predators to it.

What to Do if You Encounter Elk

1. Keep your distance; aim to keep 50 yards between you and them.
2. Never touch or move elk calves.
3. If an elk approaches you, back away slowly. Give the animal space and allow it to pass.

Elk are aggressive animals. Females can be particularly aggressive in the spring and males during the fall, but both are dangerous year-round. The best way to keep from being charged by an elk is to avoid attacks in the first place.

Moose (Alces alces) and elk (Cervus elaphus) come into potential breeding contact in both northern North America and northern Eurasia. Thus, a probable moose-elk hybrid, a male with mixed features, was shot in Montana in 1931.

Elk have a maximum vertical jump of eight feet.