The shrill whistle of a bugling bull elk is a classic symbol of the West. Beginning in late summer, the elk rut extends into October. During that time bulls wallow in creeks, springs and small wet depressions, urinate on themselves and bellow challenges. They also assemble harems of cows, a unique behavior in the deer family. A mature bull may gather 20 or more cows and attempt to fend off bulls that try to breed a stray cow while the he isn't looking. Most of these encounters are settled without a fight; but things can turn deadly serious. The two bulls walk parallel and stare each other down. Then one spins in for the attack, and the fight is on. Grunting and heaving, the dueling pair tears up sod as they fight. After many minutes, one bull wins the day, but always at a cost; gouges, scars and punctures are standard for rutting elk. But those wounds are worth it for the right to rule the herd.
Premier giclee canvas edition of 199 signed and numbered canvases. Image size, 21 x 34.