Elk and moose are both large members of the deer family (Cervidae) that roam North American landscapes. Their size and features often lead to confusion. While sharing some general characteristics, these two species have notable differences that allow for clear identification.
Direct Size Comparison
Moose are larger than elk, making them the largest species within the deer family. A bull moose stands 6 to 7 feet tall at the shoulder and weighs over 1,000 pounds, sometimes up to 1,600 pounds. Their body length can extend from 7 to 10 feet.
Elk are substantial animals, but considerably smaller than moose. A bull elk stands between 4 and 5 feet tall at the shoulder, with a body length ranging from 5 to 8 feet. Male elk weigh between 700 and 1,100 pounds, while females are lighter, averaging 375 to 650 pounds.
Key Physical Distinctions
Beyond size, moose and elk possess several physical traits that set them apart. Antlers are a noticeable difference. Male moose grow broad, flattened, and shovel-like antlers, often called palmate, which can span over 6 feet wide. Elk antlers are long, rounded, and branching, extending backward with multiple tines.
Their facial structures also differ; moose have a large, bulbous snout and a fleshy dewlap or “bell” hanging from their throat. Elk have a more streamlined, deer-like face without a dewlap. Moose have a dark brown to black coat and a pronounced shoulder hump. Elk display a lighter brown or tan body with a darker mane and a distinct light-colored rump patch.
Habitat and Behavioral Differences
Moose and elk occupy different ecological niches and exhibit distinct social behaviors. Moose prefer cooler, more isolated environments like boreal forests, wetlands, and areas near lakes and rivers. They wade in water to feed on aquatic vegetation. Moose are largely solitary, with the strongest bonds forming between a mother and her calf.
Elk are more adaptable, found in a broader range of habitats including open woodlands, forests, grasslands, and mountainous regions. They are highly social, often living in herds that can number in the hundreds, particularly during summer. Moose are primarily browsers, feeding on twigs, leaves, and aquatic plants. Elk are grazers that consume a wider variety of grasses, forbs, and shrubs.