First RBR Elk Calf Sighting of 2024!
And life begins at Record Breaking Ranch. We welcome the newest elk fawn this spring of 2024.
Elk fawning, also known as calving, is a critical period in the elk life cycle here at Record Breaking Ranch. Here are some key points about elk fawning:
Timing
- Season: Elk calves are typically born in late spring to early summer, with the peak calving season occurring in May and June.
- Gestation Period: The gestation period for elk is about 240 to 262 days, or roughly 8.5 months. This means mating usually occurs in the fall, during the rutting season, which is typically in September and October.
Behavior and Habitat
- Birthing Areas: Pregnant cows seek secluded, often remote areas with ample cover to give birth. These areas provide protection from predators and harsh weather. Common birthing sites include dense forests, tall grasslands, and mountainous regions.
- Solitary Birth: Cows usually give birth alone, away from the herd, to reduce the risk of attracting predators.
Calving Process
- Number of Offspring: Elk typically give birth to a single calf, though twins can occasionally occur.
- Calf Characteristics: Newborn calves weigh between 30 to 40 pounds (14 to 18 kg). They are reddish-brown with white spots, which provide camouflage in the dappled light of their birth habitats.
Post-Birth Behavior
- Hiding and Bonding: For the first few weeks, calves remain hidden while their mothers forage nearby. This behavior, known as “hiding,” helps protect the calves from predators. The mother visits and nurses the calf several times a day.
- Rapid Growth: Calves grow quickly and are able to follow their mothers within a couple of weeks