ALTAI WAPITI Meaning and
Definition
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Altai wapiti, scientifically known as Cervus canadensis sibiricus, is a subspecies of the North American elk (Cervus canadensis) and belongs to the family Cervidae. It is commonly found in the Altai Mountains region of Central Asia, including parts of Mongolia, Russia, Kazakhstan, and China.
Altai wapiti are large, herbivorous mammals known for their distinct physical characteristics. They possess a robust and muscular body, typically measuring around 2.3 meters (7.5 feet) in length and weighing between 320 and 600 kilograms (700 and 1300 pounds). These elk have a prominent shoulder hump, long legs, and a slender neck. The coat of the Altai wapiti varies in color depending on the season, but it generally consists of a reddish-brown hue with a grayish shade during winter.
These animals are primarily found in mountainous regions, often inhabiting coniferous and mixed forests. They are herbivores, with their diet mainly comprising grasses, leaves, bark, and twigs. Altai wapiti are known for their impressive antlers, which are typically branched and can reach lengths up to 1.5 meters (5 feet). Males, known as bulls, possess larger and more elaborate antlers compared to females, called cows.
Altai wapiti are social animals and live in herds, which are typically led by a dominant male. During the mating season, known as the rut, males engage in fierce battles to establish dominance and secure mating rights with females. They communicate using various vocalizations, including bugling calls. These wapiti play a crucial role in the ecosystem by dispersing seeds and supporting plant growth
Etymology of ALTAI WAPITI
The term "Altai wapiti" is a combination of two words: "Altai" and "wapiti".
1. Altai: The word "Altai" refers to the Altai Mountains, a mountain range located in Central Asia, where the Altai wapiti deer species is primarily found. The Altai Mountains stretch across Mongolia, Russia, Kazakhstan, and China. "Altai" itself comes from the Mongolian word "al", meaning "gold", which refers to the golden color of the mountains during sunrise and sunset.
2. Wapiti: The word "wapiti" is of Native American origin, specifically from the Shawnee language. It is derived from the word "waapiti", meaning "white rump" or "white deer". "Wapiti" is a name commonly used for the North American elk, which is closely related to the Altai wapiti.
