Placing a prediction for Colorado/central rockys elk every year, batting .500 , I am.
With the September new moon @ the 20th , I'll wager early rutting activities with an earlier peak around the 4th of October and less vocal bulls by the end of muzzle loading season ~ 1st rifle.
Banking the wager (swag) on the September new moon intensifying the shorting days.
Since you are able to observe Elk alot I want to ask you about the effect of the full moon during the Elk Rut. My Wife has a either sex Elk tag for here in Arkansas, this will be Oct. 2-5 when the Full Moon will begin but hopefully still rutting.
I hunted in NM and WY. after the rut with a full moon and it was tough but was not sure how much of that was the Moon phase or previous pressure.
Thanks
I believe latitude could have a lot to do with the peak of rut. I should clarify the peak of first esturs and overlapping second esturs, I believe will be early then average. Assuming that overlapping time is what drives bulls totally crazy?
And only basing this on the shortening days vs the new moon, adding what might be wet fall if the Colorado trend continues.
No idea what the Arkansas elk will be doing as far as rut goes. Again my assumption is it will be earlier then your used to. Other then a full-moon does seem to effect feeding habits. In short, making it harder to catch elk moving through transition areas (feeding ~ bedding areas). Hunting the full moon in Arkansas, It's my guess you'll be finding, elk in heavy cover during shooting hours .
