Today's image was shot in Yellowstone National Park during the fall rut of 2006.

In the early morning fog this lone bull stood and bugled to warn off any would be suitors trying to move in on his harem.

It was not to be as the only other bull close by was a spike who was young but smart enough to keep his distance.

So a battle was not to be...

I could not help but think that even though he did not want another bull to make off with his cows that he was a bit lonely. Bugling into the crisp morning, in some way hoping for a response and maybe even a chance to prove his dominance.