The December 7-14 elk hunting season includes public and private lands in Charlevoix, Emmet, Montmorency, Otsego, Cheboygan, Alpena and Presque Isle counties. Between 200 and 300 elk are expected to be harvested from the Michigan's elk herd which is estimated to include about 1,000 animals. The Michigan elk herd represents an animal kingdom success story. Today's population is descended from seven Rocky Mountain Elk released in Cheboygan County in 1918 to replace the extinct native species. The adult elk are an impressive sight.
Bulls measure eight feet from head to tail.
They weigh 700 to 900 pounds and are racked with massive antlers. Cows measure a foot smaller and weigh one-third less. Both males and females have chocolate-colored manes and tawny hides.