Browsing Elk in the Grand Canyon #2

The elk or wapiti is one of the largest species of deer in the world, and one of the largest land mammals in North America and eastern Asia. It was... more

by Bob and Nadine Johnston

Original - Sold

Price

Not Specified

Dimensions

20.000 x 20.000 x 1.500 inches

Title

Browsing Elk in the Grand Canyon #2

Artist

Bob and Nadine Johnston

Medium

Photograph - Digital On Canvas

Description

The elk or wapiti is one of the largest species of deer in the world, and one of the largest land mammals in North America and eastern Asia. It was long believed to be a subspecies of the European red deer, but evidence from a 2004 study of the mitochondrial DNA indicates that the two are distinct species. Photographed with a Nikon and 200mm VR lens.

This animal should not be confused with the moose, to which the name "elk" applies in Eurasia. Apart from the moose, the only other member of the deer family to rival the elk in size is the south Asian sambar.

Elk range in forest and forest-edge habitat, feeding on grasses, plants, leaves, and bark. Although native to North America and eastern Asia, they have adapted well to countries where they have been introduced, including Argentina, Australia, and New Zealand. Their great adaptability may threaten endemic species and ecosystems into which they have been introduced.

Male elk have large antlers which are shed each year. Males also engage in ritualized mating behaviors during the rut, including posturing, antler wrestling (sparring), and bugling, a loud series of vocalizations which establishes dominance over other males and attracts females.

Uploaded

April 7th, 2012