One of the most popular and sought-after species of wildlife in western North America, the elk is highly adaptable and has been transplanted into many central and eastern states. In Oklahoma, the largest free-ranging elk herds can be found on the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, as well as at Pushmataha, Cookson Hills, Spavinaw and Cherokee wildlife management areas. Small herds also inhabit private land in Kiowa, Comanche and Caddo counties. Because their natural predators have largely disappeared, unmanaged elk may overpopulate their available range, causing habitat degradation. Since then, the agreement has proven instrumental in controlling herd numbers while allowing a few fortunate hunters, selected through an annual drawing conducted by the Wildlife Department, the opportunity to pursue the American elk in its native habitat.
Unlimited wildlife viewing opportunities also are available to outdoor enthusiasts at the refuge.
As anyone who has heard the eerie bugle of bull elk at daybreak will attest, we're all fortunate to share the land with the animal known to the Shawnee as, Wapiti. Contact the Webmaster .