Here is a closer view of the same herd.  That bull is an excellent 7 x 6.  Not far away, out of this view, is a small spike bull.   Farther away is a 4 x 4 bull.  This big herd bull seemed to tolerate the spike bull near his cows, but the 4 x 4 was never allowed closer than a few hundred yards.   September is rutting time for Elk, and although the rut was mostly over during our visit, the bulls were still keeping their cows close and other bulls at a distance.   At most other times of the year, the bulls will be best buddies, but not during rutting time.