Huge beast (giant animal), unaligned
Armor Class 14 (natural armor)
Hit Points 42 (5d12 + 10)
Speed 60 ft.
Proficiency Bonus +2
Proficiency Bonus +3 (5th Edition Advanced Mode)
| STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19 (+4) | 16 (+3) | 14 (+2) | 7 (-2) | 14 (+0) | 10 (+0) |
Skills Perception +4
Senses passive Perception 14
Languages Giant Elk understands Common, Elvish, and Sylvan but can’t speak them
Challenge 2 (450 XP)
Charge. If the elk moves at least 20 feet straight toward a target and then hits it with a ram attack on the same turn, the target takes an extra 7 (2d6) damage. If the target is a creature, it must succeed on a DC 14 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.
ACTIONS
- Ram. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) bludgeoning damage.
- Hooves. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one prone creature. Hit: 22 (4d8 + 4) bludgeoning damage.
DESCRIPTION
A giant elk is a magnificent and graceful creature that resembles a normal elk, but much larger and more intelligent. A giant elk has a body length of about 15 feet and a shoulder height of about 10 feet. Its antlers are massive and impressive, spanning up to 12 feet. Its fur is usually brown or gray, and its eyes are alert and curious. A giant elk can speak its own language, as well as understand Common, Elvish, and Sylvan, but it cannot speak them. A giant elk is usually peaceful and benevolent, but it can be fierce and proud if challenged.
COMBAT
A giant elk avoids combat unless it is threatened or protecting its herd, its mate, or its allies. If it must fight, it uses its speed and strength to charge at its enemies and strike with its ramming antlers or its stomping hooves. A giant elk can also use its keen hearing and smell to detect hidden or invisible foes, and it has advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on hearing or smell. A giant elk can also communicate with other elks and cervines, and may call for their aid in times of danger.
HABITAT / SOCIETY
A giant elk lives in temperate forests, where it grazes on grasses, leaves, and berries. A herd of giant elks typically consists of a dominant male, several females, and their young. The male defends his territory and his harem from rivals and predators. The young are treated as normal elks until they grow large enough to join the herd. A giant elk is loyal to its herd and its friends, and may form bonds with good-aligned creatures that respect its nature and autonomy. Some giant elks even allow small humanoids to ride on their backs, if they prove themselves worthy.
ECOLOGY
A giant elk is a herbivorous grazer that consumes large amounts of vegetation. It may also eat fruits, nuts, or mushrooms. A giant elk requires a large territory to sustain itself, and may compete with other herbivores such as deer, moose, or unicorns. A giant elk is revered by many cultures as a symbol of beauty, grace, and harmony. Some druids, rangers, or clerics may worship giant elks as sacred animals or emissaries of the gods.