![]() Mature cows average 550 to 650 pounds and stand 4’ to 5’ at the shoulder. Mature bulls average 800 to 1,100 pounds and stand 5’ to 5’6″ at the shoulder. Elk have relatively few birthing problems an the calves are much less susceptible to scours an other health problems than beef calves due to the warmer weather and natural immunities. Calves are born in May and June and are spotted for camouflage. The gestation period for elk is approximately 255 days. The average reproductive life of a cow elk is 15-18 years. Most females will cycle at 18 months of age if they weigh over 70% of their expected adult weight. Bulls are capable of breeding at 2 years old but the best results are obtained using bulls 3 or older. The “rut” or breeding season is September to November. There is a national association, North American Elk Breeder Association, which maintains a herd registry, an annual convention and an association journal that carries a breeders directory and advertising. Markets include live auctions, video auctions and private treaties. is actually Red Deer imported from New Zealand which wholesales at about $3.00 to $3.50 per pound. Currently, most of the elk meat consumed in the U.S. Elk meat wholesale prices currently ranges from approximately $4 a pound for burger to $15 a pound for steaks. That compares to a Western Colorado average of $165 net pre-tax income per breeding age beef cow. ![]() Annual rate of return on investment can equal around 25% (See Elk Profits). Elk velvet is sold via private treaty and through marketing pools, similar to wool pools.Īs with other species, breeding stock prices vary widely, One Colorado breeder’s ranch averaged $716 net pre-tax income per breeding age cow. The domestic market is also growing as more people turn to holistic medicine. Over the past 15 years, value has ranged from $35 to $115 per pound. Velvet is a commodity used widely in the Pacific Rim as a primary ingredient in holistic medicines and as a wellness product. Mature bulls (7 to 8 years old) may produce up to 40 pounds of velvet annually. In general, bulls increase velvet yields annually. The average 2-year old will produce approximately six pounds of velvet. ECONOMICS OF ELK:Įlk provide three sources of income – 1) meat, 2) breeding, similar to beef cattle, and 3) bull elk produce antlers or Velvet each year which an be sold. The following information is provided by CEBA to introduce you to the opportunities that raising elk will give you.
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