Wapiti

[Rich Z]

Wapiti in Redwood National Park. Rut has just ended, so they're slightly less dangerous. Still, a 600mm lens is prudent to keep your distance.
This is Himself, the boss and keeper of his harem. They hit 1200 pounds and this guy looks it,
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v30/dfr49/HM/HM%202/TC191157-1aCrp8x10p_zps59424074.jpg

He's not happy about my presence, looking right at me. Last year, I had one charge me. Had truck running, door open, shot him coming until he got too close, then jumped in truck and made my escape.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v30/dfr49/HM/HM%202/TC191155-1a_zps97ae3e33.jpg

I always wondered what the antlers were for. Turns out they're back-scratchers.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v30/dfr49/HM/HM%202/TC191162-1aCrp8x10p_zps7fb84b71.jpg

Largest cow I've seen.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v30/dfr49/HM/HM%202/TC191145-1aCrp8x12pb_zps4a2662a4.jpg

Part of the harem wandering off toward Stone Lagoon. Boggy soil, bright Sun, evaporates the water and softens the pix.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v30/dfr49/HM/HM%202/TC191147-1aCrp8x12p_zpsce445c0c.jpg

[Hillbillygirl]

Very nice sharp detail, especially that first one. Such a majestic looking animal even after the rut, when they are at their worst.

[Marko]

cool set - I favour shot 1 as well!

[Rich Z]

Thank you, Hillbillygirl. They're fun to photograph as long as you keep your distance. Rich

[Rich Z]

Thanks, Marko. Yes, that first one, he looked like he was posing for me. Rich

[aubintbay]

Nice set. Really likin' that 1st one. That last one is nice also.

[Runmonty]

I am another fan of shot # 1 . Those are some impressive antlers.