The Largest American Elk Ever Caught in Oregon

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Written By Blue & Gold NLR Team

 

 

Oregon’s vast and varied landscapes, from the towering Cascade Mountains to the serene Columbia River, provide a haven for a plethora of wildlife, among them the iconic American elk. These majestic beings roam freely across the eastern regions of Oregon, harmoniously inhabiting their natural surroundings.

The American elk, a distinguished subspecies within the elk family, is celebrated for its remarkable size and majestic antlers. Standing proudly at 4 to 5 feet tall at the shoulder, male bull elks can tip the scales at a staggering 800 pounds, earning them the title of one of the largest herbivores in the wild.

Despite their imposing stature, these gentle giants grace Oregon’s wilderness with their presence, with a population of over 74,000 Rocky Mountain elks thriving in the state.

In Oregon, American elks predominantly make their homes in the eastern territories, encompassing the Cascade Mountains, the Klamath Mountains, and the Columbia Plateau. Unlike their Roosevelt elk counterparts, who favor the western regions, American elks prefer the openness of habitats like the Blue Mountains and south-central Oregon.

Enthusiastic hunters and wildlife aficionados alike are captivated by the awe-inspiring antlers of American elks, which are evaluated based on criteria such as the number of points, beam width, and circumference. Oregon boasts a storied tradition of elk hunting, with notable achievements highlighting the extraordinary size and intricacy of these majestic creatures’ antlers.

Among these achievements, Hugh Evans holds the esteemed title for the largest typical American elk in Oregon, boasting an impressive antler score of 418. Meanwhile, Delwyn M. Henderickson’s elk, with a score of 427 1/8, proudly claims the distinction of being the largest non-typical American elk in the state.

Beyond Oregon’s borders, the United States is home to an array of remarkable elk specimens, with notable figures like Alonso Winters and Denny Austad securing records for the largest typical and non-typical American elks, respectively. These achievements stand as a testament to the enduring allure and magnificence of these splendid creatures.

As dedicated efforts persist to safeguard and conserve Oregon’s precious wildlife, organizations like the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) play a pivotal role in monitoring and nurturing elk populations. Through ongoing endeavors to showcase record-breaking antlers and foster wildlife education, ODFW remains steadfast in its commitment to preserving Oregon’s natural legacy for generations to come to cherish and appreciate.

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