Here are some key differences:
* Habitat: Caribou are primarily found in Arctic and subarctic regions of North America, Greenland, Eurasia, and Russia, while elk are found in more temperate areas of North America, Europe, and Asia.
* Physical Appearance: Caribou are typically smaller than elk, with a more compact build. They have large, flat hooves adapted for walking on snow and ice. Elk are larger, with a more slender build and wider antlers.
* Antlers: Both male and female caribou have antlers, although the female's are smaller. Only male elk have antlers, and they are typically much larger than female caribou antlers.
* Migration: Caribou are known for their long-distance migrations, some of which are the longest of any land mammal. Elk also migrate, but their migrations are generally shorter than those of caribou.
* Social Structure: Caribou live in large herds, sometimes numbering in the thousands, while elk live in smaller herds, typically ranging from a few dozen to a few hundred individuals.
In summary, caribou and elk are distinct species with different physical characteristics, habitats, behaviors, and social structures.