07/27/2026
The bison rut is underway in Yellowstone.
The breeding season generally intensifies during July and August, bringing noticeable changes to the behavior of mature bulls. They become more focused on receptive cows, more attentive to competing males, and increasingly active around the herd.
The grass and debris covering this bull’s head likely came from wallowing. Bulls create or reuse shallow depressions, urinate in the disturbed ground, and roll through the mixture of soil and vegetation. This coats the bull in a strong scent that plays a role in breeding-season display and communication.
During the rut, bulls may appear calm one moment and react quickly the next. Visitors should remain at least 25 yards away, avoid approaching for a closer photograph, and never place themselves between a bull and the rest of the herd.
Photography tip: Use continuous autofocus and a fast shutter speed when photographing rutting bison. A shutter speed around 1/1600 second or faster can help preserve detail if a bull suddenly paws the ground, wallows, charges a rival, or begins moving through the herd.
Join me in Yellowstone to learn how understanding wildlife behavior can help you recognize and safely photograph moments like this.
