Boxing Match

During the fall months male deer engage in some dramatic fights with one another to win females. Bucks use their antlers for matches against other males to win the territory with the best does for mating.  

When bucks don't have antlers to fight with, they stand straight up on their hind legs and battle with their hooves.  What they're trying to do is establish dominance or hierarchy in the herd.  

Females will engage in the same behavior.  They'll stand up on their hind legs and slash out at each other with both front feet. Their sharp hooves are wicked weapons, and the does do not bluff or fight mock battles. Injuries can, and do, occur.

It's cool to have scored a rare digital photo of this behavior.