bugling

Bugling is the distinctive call made by certain animals, most notably male elk (also known as wapiti) during their mating season, which is called the rut. This vocalization is a loud, resonant, and often complex sound produced by forcing air through the animal's specialized vocal tract. The primary purpose of bugling is to communicate, serving several key functions. For male elk, it is a way to advertise their presence, strength, and dominance to other males and to attract females. The intensity and duration of the bugle can signal the animal's fitness and willingness to compete.

While elk are the most famous buglers, other species also produce similar sounds. For example, some species of deer and antelope may also bugle. The sound of bugling is often associated with the autumn months when the rut typically occurs. It can be heard over long distances, echoing through forests and valleys. Wildlife enthusiasts and hunters often seek to observe or record bugling animals, making it a notable aspect of natural soundscapes in certain regions. The specific characteristics of a bugle can vary between individuals and even change throughout the rutting period.