Here's why bugling is less likely in warm weather:
* Hormonal Influence: Bugling is strongly driven by testosterone levels, which peak during the rut. Testosterone production decreases in warmer months.
* Purpose of Bugling: The main purpose of bugling is to attract mates and establish dominance. This is less critical during the warmer months when breeding is not the focus.
* Energy Conservation: Bugling requires a significant amount of energy, which might be less efficient in hotter weather.
While elk might vocalize in warm weather for other reasons, it's much less common and less intense compared to the bugling during the rut.