Elk are raised in a setting natural to them, with minimal handling. There is no castration of males. Antler removal is for the protection of the animal and owner, as well as for economic benefits. Antler removal is very humane and is accomplished under vet care, with no injury to the animal. They are capable of breeding at two years of age.
Top velvet producing bulls have large circumference beams and mass above the third tine.
The antlers' number of points is influenced by genetics and feed, as well as by maturity. Antlers fall off in March and regrow every year. They do not grow antlers. They are very good mothers. They are born in May or June and spend the first week of their lives in tall grass, usually getting up only to nurse.