The Fog of Rut
With the colors of fall comes the rut, the time when “antlered ungulates mate.” Elk are well known for their distinct bugle during this period, a hauntingly beautiful call to any contending males in the area. Speaking of contending males, while searching for that bugle video, I came across this one…amazing! Though the season is over now, it was in full swing during my recent visit to Grand Teton NP and the forest echoed with these throaty taunts. Just after dawn one morning I was headed to the interior of the park when this big fellow stepped from the trees in pursuit of about a dozen females. They sprinted off ahead of him, but his gait was slow and calculated, making me think that maybe he was fine with fighting to win them back.
Wow, cool post. Yes, once you hear that bugle you never forget it. I’ve heard it a couple times on my trips west. That second YouTube video was amazing. Beautiful tones in this photo, really nice atmospheric feel with the fog lifting.
Great picture! The right place at the right time, how cool! Thanks for the links too - I never knew that sound was an elk…I guess I am a city girl after all!
Very nice capture with the fog hanging over the bull. The videos were a great accompaniment to your photo, it gave me goosebumps to watch.
@Diane, Kerri and Vicki - Thank you for all the comments, I’m glad everyone enjoyed the videos. I hadn’t really thought about it before, but why not give people additional means to identify with my images and stories? I can’t really come up with a good reason not too…
Thanks again for the support, I hope I can continue to bring you interesting material!
Awesome. Love the fog touch- makes the whole image.
Early morning treated us well in Grand Teton; the fog lifting with the sun to reveal a soft, surreal world. I recommend the AM if you ever photograph in the park, as the sun is already behind the mtns by the time it sets… Thanks Lindsay.