Also known as: Elk, Wapiti
Rocky Mountain ElkThis species of large deer is often recognized by the long branching antlers seen on males. Bulls (males) will form antlers which may reach 4 feet over their head. In the wintertime, the tan to light brown colored males and females will grow dark neck manes.
Habitat & Range
Elk habitat varies from prairies, forested areas, sagebrush flats, deciduous forests, even swampy valleys and mountain meadows.
Life History
Female Rocky Mountain Elk give birth to calves in late spring early summer. Calves are born with spots and are scentless to help camouflage them and protect them from predators. They also remain as motionless as possible for their first weeks of life, especially when their mothers have to leave them in search of food.Rocky Mountain Elk are herbivores and feed on a wide variety of plants including grasses, shrubs, trees, and flowers. They are ruminants and have a four-chambered stomach in order to properly digest their plant-based diet.Only the male Elk grow antlers, and growing their antlers is a natural feat. They grow and shed a new set of antlers every single year. During the growing season their antler are covering in a furry coat called velvet. Velvet is full of blood vessels that bring all the necessary minerals to grow antlers and grow them fast. Elk antlers can grow up to an inch a day!
Status, Trends & Threats
Chronic Wasting Disease
Hunting Season
Archery: Aug-Sep (varies by unit). General seasons vary by unit group: early hunts typically Sep-Nov, late hunts Oct-Dec. Spike elk (Unit Groups 072-074): Sep 25-Oct 4. Antlerless management hunts: various dates Aug-Jan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Regulations for hunting Rocky Mountain Elk in Nevada
Elk hunting in Nevada is managed through a tag draw system. Antlered bull elk seasons vary widely by unit group, generally running from Sep through Dec. Spike elk and antlerless opportunities available in select units. Archery seasons generally open in August. Mandatory harvest reporting. CWD restrictions apply to carcass importation.
When is Rocky Mountain Elk hunting season in Nevada?
Archery: Aug-Sep (varies by unit). General seasons vary by unit group: early hunts typically Sep-Nov, late hunts Oct-Dec. Spike elk (Unit Groups 072-074): Sep 25-Oct 4. Antlerless management hunts: various dates Aug-Jan.
What is the bag limit for Rocky Mountain Elk in Nevada?
1 elk per tag (antlered, spike, or antlerless depending on tag type).
What's another name for Rocky Mountain Elk?
Rocky Mountain Elk is also known as Elk, Wapiti in Nevada.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nevada | Hunting | Regulations | Season Dates | Archery: Aug-Sep (varies by unit). General seasons vary by unit group: early hunts typically Sep-Nov, late hunts Oct-Dec | Link |
| Nevada | Hunting | Regulations | Regulations | Elk hunting in Nevada is managed through a tag draw system. Antlered bull elk seasons vary widely by unit group, general | Link |
