“Call of the Wild”

The fall rut is one of the most thrilling times to photograph wildlife in the Canadian Rockies. During this season, bull elk are at their most vocal and visible, driven by instinct and the search for a mate. On this particular morning, I kept a respectful distance as this powerful bull emerged from the shadows of the forest and let out a deep, resonant bugle—a sound that echoes through the mountains like a primal call. Although they may appear calm, elk can be unpredictable during rut, so understanding their behavior and maintaining space is essential. This moment captures the raw intensity and beauty of the season.