In zoos, and on farms, these large animals must be provided with plenty of space to exercise. In many states it is illegal to own one, or you must have a special license. These are large, wild animals, and would not make a good pet. ![]() They are used for meat, hunting, antler velvet, and antlers. They can be considered partially domesticated because they have been selectively bred for temperament and antler size. Some elk have been partially domesticated on farms. Elk antlers are also valued as a trophy, for art, and furniture, and the hide was historically valued for its use on teepees, as blankets and clothing, and as footwear. Antler velvet is also a hot commodity in traditional Chinese medicine, and can be sold to Asia by ranchers. Humans are quite fond of elk as a game species, as their meat is low in fat and high in protein. On average, a single elk can consume 20 lbs. When grazing, they will feed in the early mornings and late evenings, before seeking a secluded area to digest and chew their cud during the bulk of the day. Diet of the ElkĮlk feed primarily by grazing on grasses, but will also browse on shrubs, small branches, and leaves. In Asia, they range from southern Siberia to China’s Xinjiang province. Historically, they could be found across virtually the entire U.S. In North America, they can be found in the mid-to-western United States and Canada, as well as Virginia, North Carolina, Kentucky, and Tennessee. In both North America and Asia, these imposing animals are found in just a fraction of their historic range. Some other common habitats include alpine meadows, prairies, and secluded valleys. Many sub species that live in dense forests have adapted with smaller antler size. They prefer living in forests and forest edges, particularly in mountainous regions. They are not found in tundra, desert, or the gulf coast. North American elk can survive in a vast majority of ecosystems. This velvet is even farmed in the United States, as it can be sold to East Asia as a traditional Chinese medicine. Once the antlers harden, the velvet sheds off. ![]() Antler velvet is filled with lots of tiny blood vessels that help the antlers grow. This skin is called “velvet,” because it is quite similar in texture to the fabric. During the growing process, a soft layer of skin protects elk antlers.
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