I have only ever visited the Roosevelt Elk herds of the Redwoods National and State parks during April, so I always catch the males at that awkward stage when the new antlers are just beginning to bud, and they are still shedding the double winter coat, and looking very scruffy.  That did not stop this younger male from facing off, or attempting to face of, with a more senior adult, putting on a bit of aggression, protecting his harem. This was taken in the big fields just at the entrance to Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, on the Drury Scenic Parkway.

Canon SX50HS. Program with iContrast and Auto Shadow Control. -1/3EV exposure compensation. 1800mm equivalent field of view. f6.5 @ 1/1000th @ ISO 320. Processed in Lightroom for intensity, clarity, and sharpness.  .