A small subspecies of elk endemic to California. Among the smallest elk subspecies. Recovered from <30 individuals in 1870s.

Native status: Native to California; recovered

§ Quick facts

SizeShoulder height 110–145 cm
WeightMales 175–225 kg; females 130–170 kg
LifespanWild 8–12 years
OrderArtiodactyla
FamilyCervidae

§ Encyclopedia

The tule elk is a subspecies of elk found only in California, ranging from the grasslands and marshlands of the Central Valley to the grassy hills on the coast. When the Europeans first arrived, an estimated 500,000 tule elk roamed these regions, but by 1870 they were thought to be extirpated. In 1874–1875 a single breeding pair was discovered in the tule marshes of Buena Vista Lake in the southern San Joaquin Valley. Conservation measures were taken to protect the species in the 1970s.

Source: Wikipedia — Tule elk Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Smallest elk subspecies with tan-brown coat; males with massive branching antlers.

Similar species. Other elk subspecies (larger). Mule Deer (smaller; different antlers).

Voice. Bugles during rut.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Grasses, sedges, forbs.

Behavior. Subspecies of elk endemic to California. Crashed to fewer than 30 individuals in 1870s due to overhunting and habitat loss. Now numbers ~4,000. State-managed in protected herds.

§ Range

California Central Valley

§ Habitat

Coastal scrub, grasslands

§ Threats

Habitat loss to development.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the tule elk is currently classified as Near Threatened.

§ What helps

Support California Central Valley conservation. Donate to elk recovery programs.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • California Department of Fish and Wildlife
  • National Park Service
  • IUCN Red List 2016