This buck was working over a rather sturdy tree that had obviously been rubbed in years past. Just behind me was another buck rubbing another tree. I was unable to photograph the other buck due to the thicket but the two bucks were very aware of each other. It seemed as if they were having a contest to see who could make the best mark and claim the territory.
Photographed in Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.