Elk Conference:

 So what is an elk conference anyway?  It is a term that I have given a gathering of elk. We have witnessed it several times and on at least two of those times it happened where elk were all around our cabin. It happens during the rut and there will be at least 5-6 bulls with their harems all collectively and gathered together. The bulls will mingle with other bulls and they will sometimes play and push each other around. It is not for dominance but clearly playing. During the rut they often fight for the cow elk but not when they gather like this. It is amazing to witness. 

Then after a while they will all go their own way and move off. Each bull with its own harem and they leave peaceably. I don't know if there is any other precedence for it or not but we have seen it several times. Bulls generally compete for the cows during the rut but when they come together to mingle and play it is something to witness. It has happened around out house numerous times.