Where did the elk come from that are here today?

The elk currently found in North America primarily descended from the species known as Cervus canadensis, which originated in North America and later spread to other regions, including Europe and Asia. They were nearly extirpated in the 19th century due to overhunting and habitat loss but have since been reintroduced and successfully restored in many areas. Conservation efforts have helped populations rebound, particularly in national parks and protected lands. Today, elk can be found in various habitats across the western United States and Canada.