I Could Smell His Breath and Musky Fur~

While out in Estes Park, I was a wee bit disappointed because all of the Elk had headed to the hills with their harems, and, or passions hot to find their own.  It happened to be the 12 th annual Elk Bugling Festival in this beautiful Colorado town as well, which meant tons of people.  In our several years of visiting this area, we had never seen a tour bus going through the Rocky Mountains National Park, but this weekend they were everywhere.  Our last morning there, Bill asked if I wanted one more Elk check, and boy was I glad that I said yes.  There were a few different groups which I shall share in different posts.  This particular entry is of a bull Elk that was coming into the territory of a very seasoned bull that had a large harem in check.  I had been photographing the group and then decided I better get back to the car and get a wiggle on our next adventure.  As I turned, right before me was a bull and he was making his way toward me.  It was one of those thrilling, yet feeling of, I hope I survive this kind of moments.  I also wondered if my always favorite Lavender fragrance that is purchased from England smelled anything like what he was seeking, for that would have not been a great encounter at all.  Just as he passed me, he glanced right at me and I could smell his breath and his musky fur.  He evidently did not care as much as I do for the Lavender, for her headed toward the seasoned bull and his harem, and I was certainly thankful~

*Note:  I was standing only 10 to 12" from this handsome guy, which I had no choice but to remain calm.  The lens was my always constant the 70/300.