After the parallel walk and a bit more posturing the elk may chose to take to the next level. At this point they will move head on toward each other with heads down and the battle begins.

This may last for a few seconds or much longer periods of time. The battle can be fierce at times and can lead to injury and in some cases death.

Below is a video I found on Youtube. I do not think that it was taken on the same day as these images but looking at the background it isn't very far from the same area.

It shows many of the behaviors that I have mentioned and also really highlights the drama and unpredictability that the rut can bring.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tn-HZ95K_wQ