Elk are fascinating creatures with a massive appetite, given their size. A full-grown bull can weigh over 700 pounds, which means they need to consume a large quantity of food daily – around 23 pounds! Knowing what elk like to munch on is crucial, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, hunter, or simply curious about wildlife. Elk are primarily herbivores and prefer grasses, forbs (broad-leafed plants), shrubs, and the occasional surprise food. Here are 10 foods elk love to eat in the wild, some of which may surprise you.
1. Aspen Bark
One of the most important food sources for elk during the colder months is aspen bark. Elk strip the bark from young aspen trees because it’s loaded with carbohydrates – about 75% to be exact. During winter, when other food sources become scarce, this high-energy snack helps them survive the harsh conditions.
2. Alfalfa
Alfalfa is a top favorite for elk, especially in agricultural areas. Its rich protein content makes it easy for elk to digest and helps them build energy reserves. Farmers often find their alfalfa fields raided by herds of elk, drawn in from miles away. Elk just can’t resist this green powerhouse.
3. Wild Mushrooms
You might not expect elk to feast on wild mushrooms, but they do. Mushrooms are not only a rare treat but also an essential part of an elk’s diet as they aid in digestion and offer vital nutrients. Elk typically find them in moist, shaded areas, often after a good rain.
4. Clover
Clover grows at higher altitudes and is particularly appealing to elk during the early season. Known for its protein-rich leaves, clover is highly attractive when it’s still lush and green. If you come across a patch of mountain clover, you can be sure elk are close by.
5. Willow Stems
As winter sets in and leafy plants become harder to find, elk turn to woody plants like willows. The stems of willow trees provide crucial nutrients when other food sources have dried up or are buried under snow. This makes willow a go-to survival food during colder months.
6. Big Bluegrass
Big bluegrass is a perennial bunchgrass that grows in cool, open forests. It can grow up to two feet tall, and elk love it. With a high crude protein content, particularly during the growing season, bluegrass becomes a prime food source, especially in late summer and early fall.
7. Sticky Geranium
A common mountain wildflower, sticky geranium can be found in subalpine areas and open meadows. Elk often browse on this plant due to its availability in diverse environments. Whether they encounter it in shaded woods or on sunny slopes, elk love to munch on its leaves and stems.
8. Bitterbrush
Throughout the western U.S., bitterbrush serves as a delicious snack for elk. Its small, nutrient-rich leaves have a dusty, hairy surface, making them easily recognizable. Elk will browse on bitterbrush throughout the year, but it’s especially important in the winter when other vegetation is sparse.
9. Dandelion
Though commonly considered a weed, dandelions are a highly favored food for elk, particularly in late summer. Elk rely heavily on forbs like dandelions when grasses become less abundant. These plants provide critical nutrition to elk during this period, ensuring they’re well-fed as they prepare for colder weather.
10. Alpine Fleece Flower
Also known as alpine knotweed, this perennial plant is a survival food for elk, particularly in areas affected by landslides or avalanches. The elk seek out this plant in high-altitude environments where other vegetation might not thrive, making it a crucial part of their diet in rugged terrains.
Elk’s Seasonal Diet Shifts
Elk don’t eat the same foods all year round. Their diet changes with the seasons, adjusting to what’s available. In the warmer months, elk prefer nutrient-rich grasses and forbs found in alpine meadows and slopes. But as the seasons shift into fall and winter, their diet pivots towards woody plants like willows and aspen bark. Recognizing these changes is essential for understanding elk behavior, particularly for hunters trying to track them.
How Elk Choose Their Feeding Grounds
Elk are constantly on the move in search of food, but they aren’t just randomly grazing. They strategically choose feeding grounds based on the availability of nutrient-rich plants and proximity to water sources. During the early season, elk roam across large areas to find the greenest pastures. However, as food becomes more scarce, they settle into areas with reliable food sources and minimize movement to conserve energy.
The Importance of Protein-Rich Plants
Elk, especially bulls, need a high-protein diet to maintain their massive size. Plants like alfalfa, clover, and big bluegrass are critical for helping them build and maintain muscle mass. This is particularly important during the summer and fall when they are preparing for the breeding season and the harsh winter ahead.
A Game-changer for Trackers
Understanding what elk eat and how their diet changes throughout the year can be a game-changer if you’re trying to track or hunt these majestic animals. Whether it’s finding a herd near a patch of dandelions or spotting signs of aspen bark stripping in the winter, knowing their favorite foods can significantly improve your chances of encountering them. Keep these surprising food preferences in mind next time you’re in elk country, and you might just find yourself in the right place at the right time.
Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, John developed a love for the great outdoors early on. With years of experience as a wilderness guide, he’s navigated rugged terrains and unpredictable weather patterns. John is also an avid hunter and fisherman who believes in sustainable living. His focus on practical survival skills, from building shelters to purifying water, reflects his passion for preparedness. When he’s not out in the wild, you can find him sharing his knowledge through writing, hoping to inspire others to embrace self-reliance.