Elk vs deer: 8 main differences

All moose are deer, but not all deer are moose. If this sentence is difficult to understand, don’t worry, we’re here to help clear up any confusion. The term “deer” has a wide meaning, but in the context of moose and deer it means any deer that is not a moose. This is an important distinction because deer and moose belong to the same family Cervidae, which includes other ungulates such as elk, muntjac, and reindeer (also known as caribou). Basically, they adhere to a vegetarian diet, and the males grow horns, which they periodically shed and regrow throughout their lives. However, despite this similarity, there are a number of differences that distinguish moose from deer.

In this article, we will help you learn how to tell the difference between the two. We will discuss the 8 most important attributes that separate moose from deer, and also answer some frequently asked questions in case we forget something. When we’re done, you’ll realize that while elk and deer appear to be similar, they also have unique traits. Here are 8 main differences between moose and deer.

Comparison of elk and deer

8 key differences between moose and deer

Elk and deer: size

The most noticeable difference between elk and deer is their size. On average, elk grow much larger than common deer species such as white-tailed deer, red deer, roe deer and mule deer. Elk have a thicker, sturdier body and taller shoulders. Males can weigh between 400 and 1,100 pounds, while females typically weigh between 375 and 650 pounds. They are 3 to 5 feet tall, although some particularly long-legged moose can grow even taller. Most deer, meanwhile, are 2 to 4 feet tall. In addition, deer weigh less than elk. Usually male deer weigh between 100 and 300 pounds, but large males can reach 450 pounds. Standing side by side, it is easy to notice the difference in height and weight between an elk and a deer.

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Elk and deer: habitat

Contrary to popular belief, elk and deer prefer different habitats. In general, moose prefer to live in forested, mountainous regions, although they tend to avoid denser forests in favor of more open forested areas. During the season, they can migrate between elevations, spending more time on the elevations in some periods of the year than in others. Reindeer, meanwhile, live in more diverse habitats including deserts, plains, grasslands, forests, and tundra. Like moose, some species can migrate during the season. In addition, their distribution is slightly different. Elk are found throughout North America, Central and East Asia, and deer also live in Europe, South Asia and South America.

Elk and deer: antlers

Although they appear to be similar, there are several differences between the antlers of a male elk and a deer. If we consider elk and deer of the same age, the antlers of the elk are larger. The antlers of an adult elk can weigh up to 20 pounds each and reach 4 feet in length. They can also contain more branches than antlers of the same age. Deer antlers at all ages are smaller than elk antlers. In addition, the antlers of young deer contain fewer branches than moose and are more like thorns. As the deer mature, more branches appear on their horns, which slightly curl inward towards the face.

Elk and deer: wool and color

Elk and deer coats look similar at first, but if you get closer, you will notice many small features that make them unique. As a rule, elk hair becomes thicker and longer than that of deer. In addition, moose have a shaggy mane around the upper chest and neck, which helps them keep warm in winter and in colder climates where moose usually live. Their coats tend to appear brown and gray, and their legs are more black. Given that many species of deer live in warmer climates, their fur is usually shorter than that of elk. In addition, most deer are in athletic form, and the manes do not grow like moose. Deer come in a variety of colors from brown to red to beige. However, many deer species change color in winter and their fur becomes grayer in accordance with the environment.

Elk and Deer: Speed

Both elk and deer can run at high speed and have historically had a reputation for being fast-footed. However, the maximum speed of an elk compared to a deer may differ depending on the species used for comparison. At top speed, moose can accelerate to 45 mph, although they can only maintain this speed with short bursts. Meanwhile, most species of deer can reach a top speed of 30 to 45 miles per hour. For example, white-tailed deer reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour, while there is evidence that mule deer run at speeds up to 45 miles per hour.

Elk and Deer: diet

Although they are both herbivores, the diets of moose and deer differ in several ways. Elk mainly feeds on grasses, branches, tree bark, grasses and shrubs. In particular, they prefer certain herbs, grasses and tree bark when there are many, such as bluegrass, wheatgrass, clover, geranium, irises, aspen, choker, cherry and oak. Although deer also consume large amounts of grass, herbs, twigs and tree bark, they also enjoy other foods. For example, deer also like to eat leaves, fruits, nuts, corn, and alfalfa. They may also eat lichen or fungi, especially during the colder months of winter.

Elk and Deer: Sound

Even non-hunters and non-professionals can easily distinguish the sounds made by a moose against a deer. Elk, especially males, make loud, distinct sounds. These screams can range from a harsh bark to a deep guttural grunt. Although deer are usually quiet and make few sounds, they can still make unique vocalizations. Usually the sounds of a deer are huskier and more high-pitched than the sounds of an elk. Enthusiasts often describe the sounds of deer as a goat-like bleating or a high-pitched squeal.

Elk and Deer: Footprints

The last difference between moose and deer concerns their tracks. Both elk and deer are hoofed ruminants, meaning their hooves are made of hard keratin, which is the same material as human nails. However, the tracks of elk and deer are very different from each other. Moose tracks are tooth-shaped and consist of two rounded, parallel halves placed side by side. Deer tracks, meanwhile, look more heart-shaped. They also appear to be softer due to the deer’s lighter build and softer steps.

Frequently asked questions about moose and deer

How many species of deer are there?

There are currently 43 species in the Cervidae family.

Do all male deer have horns?

Almost all male deer have antlers, with the exception of the Chinese water deer, which instead grows protruding fangs. In addition, antlers grow on female reindeer.