Spotted elk claves are rarely seen in September and this is the only one we've seen since arriving in Yellowstone Park. We've noticed it several times, always close to its mother and somewhat removed from the others in the herd. Elk facts: Elk calves are typically born in late May through early June. Cows move away from the herd to give birth, and will stay on their own for about a month until the calf is strong enough to join the herd. Average birth weight for calves is 35 lbs. Calves are light brown with white spots. Newborns carry very little scent, helping them remain inconspicuous to predators. Calves nurse from their mother until they are about 2 months old when they begin to add forage to their diet. A 5 to 6 month old elk calf will be about the same size as an adult white-tailed doe and will have developed their brown coat.

To see more of our elk images click HERE

To see more of our Yellowstone National Park images click HERE