Observing a bull elk during rut is a fascinating experience. This bull was apparently taking out his vexation on an available tree. In actuality a bull elk thrashes about in shrubs and saplings with his antlers to remove their dead, dried-up velvet and to polish them to a shine. Perhaps in preparation for actual battling as well as a way to advertise his fitness, he engages brush, saplings, and shrubs in mock battles.

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