Elk statue 1 Deer 0 - cause rut insanity

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around animal behavior during mating seasons, particularly focusing on the aggressive tendencies of male deer and elk, as well as other species like hares and elephants. It explores the phenomenon of increased aggression in animals during these periods and anecdotal observations related to this behavior.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that male deer and elk exhibit heightened aggression during rutting season, drawing parallels to other species like male elephants in must.
  • One participant shares an observation about hares on the Navajo reservation that reportedly attempt to attack vehicles during their mating season, suggesting a similar aggressive behavior.
  • A participant questions the origins of the phrase 'mad as a March hare' and seeks confirmation from others about similar behaviors observed in Europe or India.
  • Another participant recounts a personal anecdote involving a cicada engaging in a headbutting match with its reflection, highlighting the theme of animals displaying aggressive or irrational behavior.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying experiences and observations regarding animal behavior during mating seasons, but there is no consensus on the extent or nature of these behaviors across different species or regions.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the anecdotal nature of observations, potential cultural differences in animal behavior reporting, and the lack of scientific data to support claims made by participants.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in animal behavior, mating rituals in wildlife, and cultural references related to animal aggression may find this discussion relevant.

jim mcnamara
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https://www.twincities.com/2009/11/09/deer-loses-head-butt-with-wisconsin-lawn-ornament/

Kind of sad and interesting. Male deer and elk go into rut during mating season, male elephants go into must. In general their aggression "coefficient" goes through the roof.

Animal handlers and zoo personnel are trained in how to stay safe around these berserkers.

This insanity is not limited to larger mammals. If you drive through parts of the Navajo reservation in March the roads are littered with dead hares. The males come out in the evening and actually try to attack the autos. They do no fare well. This goes on during early evening for about a week or so.

I am pretty sure this is where 'mad as a March hare' saying comes from. Has anyone in Europe seen this with hares? India, male elephants in must?
 
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@Vanadium 50 - yup I stole your link, it looks like. I thought it deserved a biological twist.
 
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We went to investigate an irregular clank, clank noise once and found a cicada locked in a headbutting match with its reflection in a patio door. My dad captured it under a cup, took it far away from its mortal enemy, and let it go.
 
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