WISCONSIN — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) shared a reminder for deer hunters to identify their target this season. The agency said several bull elk left the central herd in Jackson County and have been spotted in the southern part of the state. 

What You Need To Know

  • Several bull elk have been spotted outside management zones, in southern Wisconsin

  • The DNR wants to make sure hunters can spot the difference between elk and white-tailed deer 

  • Elk were eliminated from Wisconsin in the late 1800s. In 1995 they were reintroduced in the state

  • The DNR estimated the state's elk population is now around 500  

Christina Kizewski, DNR wildlife biologist, said at least two bull elk have moved south this fall from their home range. It's breeding season and the bulls are looking for female elk.

"Bull elk will fight for breeding opportunities, and if they are unsuccessful in one area will perhaps go and try a new area," Kizewski said.

With the gun deer hunt set to start Nov. 23, the DNR wants to be sure hunters can spot the difference between the two animals. Elk tend to be larger than white-tailed deer. Bull elk have larger sweeping antlers that go back; white-tailed deer buck antlers transition more forward, according to Kizewski. She said elk also have a pretty distinct white rump patch.

In the late 1800s, elk were eliminated from Wisconsin. They were reintroduced in the Clam Lake area in 1995. The DNR estimated today there are 500 elk in Wisconsin. 

Watch the full interview above.

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