Deer seek shelter and may stop feeding during a hot spell, but elk can sweat more to cool off. Still, during a hot spell, they may retreat to north and east slopes to take shelter among the trees. They may also stay near water, and sometimes they stand in a stream or pond. Elk will sometimes wallow and cover themselves in mud, which absorbs body heat as it dries and also protects them from biting insects. Elk might also head to cooler, breezier high country.
Air cools the blood flowing through the velvet, which then helps to cool the bull's body.
Elk begin moving to lower elevations. Mature bulls move in among a group of cows and calves. These groups, called harems, are the scene of constant action from September through October, and sometimes through November. Newborn to its mother, who recognizes her calf by its voice. Warning of danger.