What Should You Know About Elk Feeding Habits?

Diurnal Feeding Patterns

Elk typically graze on grasses and forbs during daylight hours, with the majority of feeding occurring between 9 am and 1 pm. During this time, they tend to stay in areas with abundant vegetation, such as meadows and valleys. It’s essential for hunters to be aware of these patterns when planning a spot and stalk strategy, as elk are more likely to be active and vocal during this time.

Nocturnal Feeding Patterns During Rut

During the rutting season, elk tend to become more nocturnal, feeding at night and resting during the day. This shift in behavior is driven by the need to conserve energy for mating and territorial displays. As a result, hunters may need to adjust their calling strategy to take advantage of this change in behavior, using calls that mimic the sounds of a cow elk or a bull elk to attract a response. To increase the effectiveness of calling at close range, hunters should focus on using a high-quality call that can produce a clear, realistic sound, and should be prepared to make multiple calls to attract a response.

Steep Angle Shots and Feeding Terrain

In areas with steep terrain, such as mountainous regions, elk may feed on vegetation that is difficult to access, requiring hunters to take steep angle shots to harvest the animal. To increase the effectiveness of these shots, hunters should focus on practicing their marksmanship skills, particularly in relation to bullet drop and lead. They should also be aware of the terrain and the elk’s position, using techniques such as reading the terrain and using a rangefinder to determine the distance to the elk. By being prepared and aware of the terrain and the elk’s behavior, hunters can increase their chances of taking a successful shot at close range.