Elk: Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone National Park, September 2024 — Buck elk…though they are commonly called bull elk that is not correct, as elk are deer not antelope or cows…they shed their horns and regrow them every year…so, this buck elk is putting on his mating scent and a dominance show for the females in hopes of a successful rutting season. Bucks dig into the ground, often after urinating on it, and toss the weeds and grasses up over their back, spreading their mating scent (with comes from a gland by their eyes), all over. They also rub antlers on trees and brush, and generally make a show of themselves, dominating their territory and their harem, and letting any other bucks in the area know who is charge. When you see a buck with vegetation in its antlers, you know he is ready to party. Yes, well I am sure tuxedos on us look silly to an elk too. Sony a6700 with the Tamron 50-400 Di iii VC zoom at 600mm equivalent. Program mode with my bird and wildlife modifications. Processed in Photomator.