A Lot of Bull

Photo of a bull tule elk among spring flowers.
7-Point Bull Tule Elk; Point Reyes National Seashore

This is the biggest bull I’ve seen on the south end of the Tomales Peninsula.  He’s probably the sire of all the calves in that area.  I’ve spent some time watching him and the other smaller bulls that  comprise this bachelor band.  One of the things I’ve noticed is how he constantly asserts his dominance in little ways.  His mantra:  “Out of my way.”  Come fall, all the others know that to mate they have to beat the one who’s always pushing them around.  Most won’t try.  I think this is common to all herding wildlife.  What I liked about this photo opportunity was the wildflowers (wild radish?) and the late afternoon light.