Stumpy the elk

[dryflyelk]

Check out this poor boy that appeared on the trail cam. I'm wondering if he has some disease, was a victim of a predator, or took a bullet or an arrow. What do you think?

 

[NVBighorn]

He looks a little thin. Interesting how an injury to one side of the body affects the opposite side antler. I've seen that in deer too.

So, question is, would you shoot him?

 

[AHT]

I was just watching a show last night, I believe it was that female hunter Brenda Valentine, and she shot a whitetail with a stump on the back leg as well and it's oppisite antler was smaller too.

 

[dryflyelk]

I'm thinking the long antler is the jacked up one. The right side appears to be developed normally, although small. The left one kind of takes off like a weed at a weird angle.

 

[dryflyelk]

Also, notice that there are two elk in the last three photos.

 

[proutdoors]

I see the 'other' bull laying down.

That bull looks thin, I doubt he will make thru this winter.

PRO

 

[drahthaar]

How did he make it thru this winter? Unreal how tough some animals are.

 

[3fletch]

Very cool pictures. When an injury happens to the hind end the antler on the opposite side is affected and when the injury is to the front quarters the same side antler is affected. I just love trail cams!!!! They are my newest hobby!!!

 

[JohnQPubic]

If i had to guess I'd say screwed up leg and subsequent poor condition is the result of Elk-versus-vehicle collision just because that's usually what it is when I have to go necropsy "Sick elk" The leg looked like it healed that way after being broken. Interesting thought about the opposite antler syndrome- that's new to me thanks.

I've got a pic of a mule deer just covered with large tumors, I'll try to post it unless you guys have already seen it around here. It's pretty sad. Having said that I've seen a 3 legged Ibex billy run oround the cliffs of the Florida Mountains for years.