Fascinating Facts from Benny the Elk.

Did you know:

• Baby Elk are called “calves”.
• Elk calves have spots just like deer fawns.
• Newborn deer fawns weigh about 6-8 pounds, but a newborn elk may weigh 35 or 40 pounds.
• Elk cows (females) take turns “babysitting” several elk.
• Calves so the other can graze “farther afield”
• An elk calf can stand up when it is about 20 minutes old.
• A newborn elk calf has very little odor, which makes it difficult for bears, coyotes and other predators to locate it.
• Newborn elk calves use the “hider strategy” for survival. A combination of protective coloration (“camouflage”) and lying very still to keep predators from locating them.

Benny’s Tip -
There are many ways to learn about the elk in Pennsylvania. You and your family can attend some of the many educational programs hosted here at the Elk Country Visitor Center. You can also be part of the special school-based, conservation education programs offered at the Elk Country Visitor Center by attending with your class or scout group.

See you in Elk Country.