Once the calf has gained its running legs, it re-joins the herd with its mother. Only cows, calves and young bulls make up these summer herds. They rely on the safety of a group to protect them from predators. Mature bulls, on the other hand, remain solitary or in small bachelor groups. They must find the best food for rapid body and antler growth during the short growing season.
Mature bulls gather cows and their calves into harems.
Young bulls usually look on from the sidelines. Once the rut is over, elk stay in loose mixed herds until spring. Then the sexes separate again until fall. Elk Talk Elk are the most vocal deer. Cows and calves keep in contact with squeals, chirps and mews.