In southeast Iowa, you’ll find a farm that’s like no other. Wildlife Lakes Elk Farm produces a variety of elk products in a gorgeous natural setting. The farm is located about 10 minutes from the Mississippi River, just outside of West Burlington. If you visit the farm, you’ll not only learn some interesting things about elk – you’ll also discover that there’s much more to this beautiful and unusual place.

The farm offers tours upon request and on the tour, you’ll learn a lot about these majestic creatures and get to see them up close. Elks are social animals - in the wild they live in large herds.

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You’ll encounter some bull elk, cows and babies. A baby elk might weigh 31-35 pounds at birth. A mature bull elk can weigh as much as 1,100 pounds!

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Every year, bull elk shed and grow new antlers, so at certain times of year you may not see many antlers on the farm. Elk typically shed antlers between January and April.

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Elk antlers have a soft covering called velvet - in the wild, this rubs off as males bang into each other to compete for mates. Studies have indicated female elk prefer males with the most antlers. This male elk is the equivalent of Brad Pitt.

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The farm admits that it has a weakness for building ponds and lakes. The result is a habitat that’s ideal for waterfowl.

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You may spot some trumpeter swans or cygnets (baby swans). The farm is working with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources on returning these majestic birds back to the wild. Stop by in the spring to hear their distinctive call.

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The farm is gorgeous in every season. It’s a wonderland in the winter.

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The farm sells a variety of elk products, including steaks, jerky and brats. According to the farm, elk tastes delicious, and compared to beef, it’s lower in fat and higher in protein. The farm’s owners can also make recommendations on local restaurants that serve the farm’s elk meat. Elk are not the only unusual animals you’ll find on an Iowa farm. This amazing farm is filled with kangaroos.

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Address: Wildlife Lakes Elk Farm Inc, 13810 Washington Rd, West Burlington, IA 52655, USA