Roosevelt Elk (Cervus canadensis roosevelti)
Adult Roosevelt elk (photo credit: ODFW)
Description: Roosevelt elk are the largest subspecies of North American elk. Cows are commonly 700 to 800 lbs and bulls can weigh over 1000 lbs. Males grow large antlers in the summer and fall, they then fall off in the winter before growing back next season. Roosevelt elk have a dark tan to brown coat, a few shades darker then other elk species. In Cannon Beach Roosevelt elk tend to stay together in a large herd, wondering from one grazing location to another. They are not afraid of cars or people and often walk on highway 101, through town, and one the beach. If you see an elk, do not approach it. Roosevelt elk are wild animals and can be dangerous if they feel threatened. Ensure the safety of yourself and the animals by observing the herd from a respectful distance.
Habitat: Roosevelt elk range from British Columbia to Northern California and in a few locations in Alaska, primarily inhabiting coastal forests and meadows. On Oregon’s North coast, Roosevelt elk can found in wooded areas, on the beach, and even walking through town. Cannon beach’s herd is often seen in Ecola State park, or grazing on the side of highway 101.
Diet: Elk are herbivores that primarily graze on lichen, ferns, and other leafy plants and grasses found in old grow forests.
Tide Pool Tidbits:
Roosevelt elk are named after President Theodore Roosevelt, who created Olympic National Park, home to the largest wild Roosevelt Elk population in the Pacific Northwest.
The antlers of Roosevelt elk are the largest of any of the North American elk subspecies.
Oregon is also home to Rocky Mountain elk, however this subspecies is found East of the Cascades.