Do you hear that strange noise in the mountains each fall? It's probably elk bugling!

Rocky Mountain elk are common in New Mexico, and each September and October you can hear males calling to females during the breeding season. These beautiful animals are closely related to the red deer of Europe, and they play an important role in the ecosystem. Elk are herbivores, and during the rut, they focus on mating rather than eating. After the breeding season is over, they start to eat again so they can store up fat for winter.

If you're lucky enough to hear elk bugling in the wild, it's an unforgettable experience. The males' calls can carry for miles, and they echo through the mountains. If you're hiking in New Mexico during fall, keep your ears peeled and you just might hear these majestic creatures!

The elk arrived in the state around 1910 and 1966. The elk breed in September however, it has been recorded that they can start as early as August 24 or as late as November 05. The male elk announce the breeding season by bugling. Bugling is a mix of high-pitched whistles and deep grunts. Dominant herd bulls gather harems of as many cows as they can protect from weaker satellite bulls. The harem bulls are so obsessed with breeding they typically neglect to eat during the rut, but their need to restore their depleted body fat before winter turns their attention to feeding immediately after the breeding season.

So the next time you hear a strange sound coming from the mountains you will know that love is in the air for the local Rocky Mountain Elk. Fall is a great time to take a trip to Ruidoso and see these elk in their natural habitat.

If you love seeing wildlife, then this is definitely the place for you! So don't wait, come on down and enjoy the fall in Ruidoso!