Mammals
Mule deer
Found across Utah, from high mountains to city neighborhoods, and named for its large, mule-like ears.
Rocky Mountain elk
Utah's state mammal, best known for the fall bugling of bulls during the rut.
Rocky Mountain elk are the only elk in Utah and have been the state mammal since 1971. Both sexes have a light-brown body, dark brown head, neck and legs, and a cream-colored rump. Bulls average about 700 pounds and 5 feet at the shoulder; cows are a little smaller. Only bulls grow antlers, shed and regrown every year.
Elk are found in mountain habitat throughout Utah. In summer they live high, usually between 6,000 and 10,000 feet, and favor aspen forest for food and shelter. In late fall most move down to winter range with less snow, gathering in valley bottoms and on south-facing slopes. From early September through mid-October, bulls bugle and gather groups of cows.
Watching and staying safe
Elk usually avoid people but can be aggressive toward people and dogs, especially during the rut. An agitated elk raises its head, lays its ears back and flares its nostrils. If you find a calf alone, keep your distance and leave it; the cow is usually nearby. Feeding elk is strongly discouraged.
More wildlife · Mountain forest
Mammals
Moose
The largest member of the deer family in Utah, at home where northern mountain forest meets water.