While coming down the Tuck River in the Q about a week ago we were fortunate enough to have a large bull moose wander out into the sand packed stream bed in front of us. We kept our distance given the firm sandy bottom and due to the proximity to rutting season.
The bull began to bellow and you could hear another moose in the woods next to the river. Clearly, this is going to be the cow and perhaps a calf.
Nope, after 30 seconds or so a second bull appeared in all of its antlered glory. The two grunted back and forth, the bull in the steam seemed to be encouraging the second bull to enter the river in order to cross it. The second bull came out nearly to the edge but then hesitated. The first bull finally retreated and joined the other bull as they disappeared into the woods.
Very perplexing as to both the solitary nature of the bulls and the time of year.
It was, however, very cool to watch and hear.

A buddy and I got to see that one September in the Horseshoe/Vista area. Wish I had the camera I have now. We were afraid to get too close lest WE be seen as "Challengers." All they did was bellow and grunt at each other...no contact, but it was really neat!

Every time I see a bull moose in antlers i feel fortunate, but an experience like yours is extra special. Maybe moose one was looking for a scrap, and moose two just didn't want to oblige? Was there a size difference, or were they pretty evenly matched?

That sounds like an awesome experience.

Moose one may have been larger so perhaps was spoiling for a fight. However, other than the grunting, they showed no real signs of wanting to square off. Perhaps moose two already knew his place.

It's still early for rutting activity. I have seen bucks while bow hunting still in bachelor groups. End of October is when the pre-rut kicks in. Halloween night use to be my favorite night to bowhunt..... Then I had kids. No complaints though!

I am probably wrong but I thought the moose were in rut prior to the deer?

GraniteCliffs: "I am probably wrong but I thought the moose were in rut prior to the deer?"

You are correct. Late Sept to mid October. This week should be peak....on average

cowdoc: "

GraniteCliffs: "I am probably wrong but I thought the moose were in rut prior to the deer?"

You are correct. Late Sept to mid October. This week should be peak....on average"

I did not know that moose were in rut that early in the season.