Madison Reporter

Hunters in Wisconsin are being urged by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to carefully identify their targets this hunting season, particularly to avoid mistaking elk for white-tailed deer. The DNR notes that elk sometimes leave their designated ranges—Clam Lake and Black River—especially during the fall breeding period.

The agency emphasizes that proper identification is crucial for safety and for protecting non-target wildlife. According to the DNR, “Elk occasionally venture outside of Wisconsin’s two elk ranges (the Clam Lake and Black River ranges), especially during the fall breeding season. Positively identifying the target ensures the safety of other people and avoids accidental shooting of non-target animals.”

To help hunters distinguish between elk and deer, the DNR offers several guidelines:

- Adult elk are significantly larger than adult deer, standing 1-2 feet taller at the shoulders. Elk calves can be similar in size to an adult white-tailed doe but share coloration with adult elk.

- Antler shape is another key difference; white-tailed deer antlers curve forward while elk antlers are larger and sweep backward from their heads.

- Color markings also differ: “Elk have a tan rump patch, black legs and a dark brown mane. Deer have legs the same color as their bodies, a white throat patch and a fluffy white tail.”

- Some elk may wear colored ear tags or orange tracking collars with visible numbers as additional identifiers.

The DNR provides a comparison guide on its website to help hunters visually distinguish between these two species.

The department continues to see isolated cases where hunters mistakenly shoot an elk thinking it is a deer. The DNR reminds hunters: “Since there are still isolated incidents where hunters mistake an elk for a white-tailed deer, the DNR reminds hunters that any illegally taken elk may result in a fine and a revocation of hunting licenses.”

Hunters who observe elk outside established management zones are encouraged to report sightings using the Wildlife Observation Tool available through the DNR.

These efforts reflect ongoing work by state agencies to protect wildlife populations and ensure responsible hunting practices throughout Wisconsin.