10-OCT-2007
Bull Crossing Buffalo at River Bend
What has become the north herd migrates to a resting area bounded by a u-shaped bend in the Buffalo River. As is generally the case with elk migrations during the rut, the alpha bull trails the herd and guards against intruders. The is the alpha bull crossing the buffalo completing the morning migration. The image is soft and painterly because it was shot through leaves and twigs, but I find the color interesting. #28,827
12-OCT-2007
Preparing for Battle
This captures how bull elk behave before battling for domination. Two bulls will face each other, tip their antlers back and forth, and paw the ground before engaging. Bull elk fights are wrestling matches much more than sword fights. #29,227
12-OCT-2007
After a Skirmish
Not all encouters lead to fights. Often there is just a face off, and the challenging bulls quickly withdraw. This is one of those interactions. #29,195
12-OCT-2007
Alpha Bull Surveys Threats
After winning a few skirmishes and one fight, the alpha bull keeps watch on the satellite bulls attempting to steal his herd. #29,148
12-OCT-2007
Losing Bull Flees Fight
The loser of the bull fight flees in a flash. The distracted alpha bull watches the loser leave, while a different satellite bull sneaks off with some of his cows and calves. Satellite bulls often gang up on an alpha bull and non-participants steal cows during during the fight. This scene recurs every morning. #29,098
12-OCT-2007
Bull Fight in the Mist
The big boys are beginning to fight now as the rut begins in earnest. This morning I shot 4 fights, more than all the rest of this fall to date. The next days should be pretty intense. Stay tuned. #29,096