When do baby Elk get their antlers?

Baby elk, also known as calves, are born without antlers. Male elk, called bulls, begin to grow antlers when they are around 1 and a half years old. These antlers start as small bumps on the skull and grow rapidly during the spring and summer months. During this time, the antlers are covered in a soft, velvety layer of skin. By late summer, the antlers are fully grown and the velvet is rubbed off. The bulls use their antlers to fight for dominance and for attracting females during the mating season. Female elk, called cows, do not usually grow antlers unless they have a high level of testosterone.