Roosevelt Bull Elk bugling during the rut in California, USA

Roosevelt Bull Elk Bugling

California, USA

During the rut bull elks bugle and rub trees, shrubs, and the ground with their antlers to attract cows and to intimidate other bulls. A cow listens to the bugle for clues about the bull's size. Older, larger bulls usually bugle more loudly than their young rivals. Their bugles advertise their presence and fitness to both females and other males.

Sometimes, violent battles occur to establish dominance. Prior to an altercation, the two bulls display their dominance by bugling and thrashing the ground with their antlers. They might march side by side, then suddenly turn, walk farther, or begin their fight. Usually, bulls that are more equal in size will battle for control of the harem and the right to mate when the cows come into estrus.

Photo © copyright by Dr. Edward Mikol.

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