High on the ridge, he answers, A thunder in his throat, Breath clouding in the chill dawn. His antlers catch the first light A crown of battle and pride. The valley stills beneath his call, Aspens tremble, foes retreat The wind itself holds its breath. For this is his kingdom, And he is The king of the rut. Image captured in Rocky Mountain National Park 16x9 format Canon EOS R5 Canon EF 400mm f/2.8 L II USM 1/400 sec f/6.3 400 mm ISO 1200