VIDEO: Meet 'Oddball,' the Oregon elk adopted by a herd of cows

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — As the holiday season approaches, one Oregon household is giving thanks for its newest family member, no matter how strange he might be.

An elk calf, who randomly joined a herd of angus beef cows near Pacific City in March, has become an accepted member of the herd, a local family told KOIN 6. The owners of the herd, who asked to remain anonymous, have since named the elk “Oddball.”

The family shared dozens of photos and videos of Oddball growing up with their herd during the last eight months. The videos include Oddball playing in the sprinklers and sparring with some of his cow brethren.

“He currently eats hay every day in the barn and shares a molasses tub with the cows,” the family said. “He has some identity issues, but generally gets along with everyone.”

The family said that it hopes to find a permanent home for the stray elk. In the meantime, they’re enjoying Oddball’s company and his playful, funny personality.