The gestation period for elk is approximately 255 days. Calves are born in May and June and are spotted for camouflage. Elk have relatively few birthing problems an the calves are much less susceptible to scours an other health problems than beef calves due to the warmer weather and natural immunities. Mature cows average 550 to 650 pounds and stand 4' to 5' at the shoulder. Elk dress out at approximately 60 percent of live weight.
Elk are predominantly grazers and are efficient converters of nutrients.
They eat most upland grasses and legumes. In general, two to three elk can be fed on the pasture necessary for one beef cow. While elk are very hardy animals and less susceptible to pneumonia than cattle, but like cattle they are susceptible to tuberculosis and Brucellosis. Most state have stringent testing requirements. In Colorado the Colorado Department of Agriculture licenses all facilities and regulates the movement of animals.