Elk farming is relatively new agriculture industry. Elk, also referred as Wapiti, are a magnificent and unique animal possessing many attributes that are suitable for business development. Every year, bull elk produce velvet or soft horn, highly valued by East Asian cultures. According to a recent research in North American, antler velvet is effective for nutritional joint support and maintenance.
Nutritionally the superior elk meat (AKA venison) is becoming more popular and is also developing rapidly. The controlled “sport” hunting is also earning popularity. These markets are supplied with animals from a stepping up breeding industry. The animals are expertly farmed to produce the maximum value offspring annually which can be sold at fluctuating market prices.
The elk farming in the U.S. is in early growth stage. The breeding stock is of the significant value. Now-a-days, farmers are trying to grow the biggest and best elk in their elk farming business. Elk are the hardy animals that require little of the attention required of cattle. They will eat whatever they can forage, including the shrubs, leaves and tree bark. The preferred feeds for elk include green alfalfa and grain supplement.
Two to three elk may be kept in an area suitable for one beef steer. The elk eat about 2 to 3% of the body weight daily. Bulls average about 800 to 1000 pounds in weight, while the cows range from 450 to 650 pounds. The proper elk management in North America requires the feeding of supplemental hay during the winter followed by a rich vitamin mineral routine before and during breeding, calving and velveting.
The facilities for elk are different from cattle. Generally, eight foot high fences are significant, as per the local regulation, and feeding stations are required.
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