We were driving through a residential area in the mountain town of Estes Park, Colorado. We came upon a bull elk who had decided to take his afternoon rest in a patch of sunlight right beside the road. Not wanting to startle the drowsy animal, we eased off to the side of the road and stopped. As quietly as possible, I stepped outside the car to take a few photos.
BNSullivan.jpg "Elk at Estes Park, Colorao") |
| Elk resting by the roadside in Estes Park, Colorado |
The elk stirred a bit, but did not get up. As he turned his head toward me I was able to get a shot of his huge antlers.
BNSullivan.jpg "Large male Elk - Estes Park, Colorado") |
| Male Elk with beautiful antlers |
Then he did something surprising. He leaned his head back and began to scratch his back with his antlers.
BNSullivan.jpg "Male Elk - Estes, Park, Colorado") |
| Elk scratching his back with his antlers |
He moved his head back and forth, rubbing his antlers across his back for about a half minute.
BNSullivan.jpg "Male Elk - Estes Park, Colorado") |
| Elk scratching his back with his antlers |
Judging from the expression of pure bliss on his face, he must have found just the right spot. If he could have spoken, I think he would have said, "Ahhhh."
BNSullivan.jpg "Male Elk - Estes Park, Colorado") |
| Elk says, "Ahhh - that's the spot!" |
Itchy spot relieved, he resumed his nap. We watched the big elk for a few more minutes, then slowly drove past him and went on our way. He never stirred.
BNSullivan.jpg "Male Elk at rest - Estes Park, Colorado") |
| Male Elk at rest - Estes Park, Colorado |
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