Rocky Mountain Elk, Jasper National Park (click image to view larger)
Early Fall (late September/early October) is a wonderful time to be in the Canadian Rockies for the elk rut. There are four recognized living subspecies of Elk (Cervus canadensis), also known as Wapiti, and the Rocky Mountain subspecies (C. canadensis nelsonii) is the most widespread. Their range extends from New Mexico to the Canadian Rockies and as far west as the mountains of Nevada. Tule Elk are found in California, Roosevelt Elk in rain forests of the Pacific Northwest, and the Manitoban Elk in Canada's Prairies and the upper U.S. Midwest.
This particular bull was the largest I saw while in Jasper and, to go along with that, appeared to have also amassed the largest harem with over 10 females. This image was made shortly after he had let a younger bull know that the upstart was not welcome in the neighborhood. After sending the other one away, he bugled loud and long to let everyone within earshot know who was in charge.
Fantastic pic of the Elk! Good job!
Thank you so much! Quite the majestic animal.
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Betty
http://adoptpet.info
Thanks so very much!