Bull Elk in Morning Sun, Yellowstone National Park

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Elk or wapiti (Cervus canadensis) are among the largest species of the deer family in the world and one of the largest land mammals in North America. Elk cows average 500 to 530 pounds (225 to 241 kg), stand 4.3 feet (1.3 m) high at the shoulder, and are 6.9 feet (2.1 m ) from nose to tail. Bulls are about 40% larger, weighing an average of 710 to 730 pounds (320 to 331 kg), stand 4.9 feet (1.5 m) at the shoulder and average 8 feet (2.45 m) in length.