Majestic Elk Rut

The annual Elk Rut is arguably one of the greatest experiences I have been fortunate to witness.  Every year for a short period of time, when the leaves turn yellow and night temperatures are cooling off, the big bulls start roaming their territories searching for a harem of cows.  This is a tough time for the bulls as they are so focused to mate that they forget to eat, losing valuable fat reserves right before winter.  This does not stop them as they try to gather as many cows as possible to potentially have the right to mate with them.  The eerie "scream" or "roar" ( also known as bugle) is something that can not be described to anyone and is just pure magic to witness.  They fight, chase, bugle and scream for dominance, all in the hopes of mating with as many females as they can.  The pure brute strength and energy during this time is phenomenal!