DSC_8604-2R1 Bull Elk
This bull elk (Cervus canadensis) was photographed inside the Rocky Mountains National Park near Estes Park, Colorado.
The rut in Colorado runs from mid-September to mid-October. This photo was taken on 9/5/2023. The animal has been rubbing smaller saplings to remove the velvet from his antlers. You may be able to see the blood on his left antler, on the most forward tine. As the velvet is removed, tree bark is also torn off. Many hunters use these "buck rubs" to identify where bucks may be found.
There were many of these animals in the park, but there are also many humans in the park as well. You must now pre-register the day before to visit the park on the next day.
DSC_8604-2R1 Bull Elk
This bull elk (Cervus canadensis) was photographed inside the Rocky Mountains National Park near Estes Park, Colorado.
The rut in Colorado runs from mid-September to mid-October. This photo was taken on 9/5/2023. The animal has been rubbing smaller saplings to remove the velvet from his antlers. You may be able to see the blood on his left antler, on the most forward tine. As the velvet is removed, tree bark is also torn off. Many hunters use these "buck rubs" to identify where bucks may be found.
There were many of these animals in the park, but there are also many humans in the park as well. You must now pre-register the day before to visit the park on the next day.