Seasonal Elk Activity

Bulls over the age of three to four years old may shed their antlers and begin growing new racks from mid March to early April, and continue growing their racks for 130-150 days, shedding velvet as early as the first week of August. Up to fifty percent of these bulls may have five points per side while the rest may have six or more points per side. In one study, bulls over the age of four all had five points or more per side. The antler growth of three year old and older bulls may take up 150+ days. I sold a pair of 6×7 shed antlers from a 5-year old bull on April 6th one year; the antlers had dropped off the week before.

Up until the age of seven most of the nutrients taken in by the bulls are used for muscle and bone growth. By age seven the bulls have usually reached full body size, which is when some of the nutrients can be diverted to antler growth. This is when the greatest growth in antler mass and length normally occurs; and is known as the “seven year antler spurt.” Because of this antler spurt bulls between the ages of 9 and 12 can be expected to grow the largest racks. After the rut the prime age bulls usually leave the cow and calf herds to seek high quality forage to get them through the winter. If these prime age bulls rejoin the cow herds they may retain their antlers 10-20 days longer than normal due to renewed sexual interest.

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