Looks like confused youngins.

 

I run cameras year around. Bucks start fighting when the velvet comes off and continue to do so untill they shed. Its not just a rut thing. The only difference is the intensity.

 

...

 

A couple nice bucks doing their thing

 

Wonder if that’s a doe in the background they are tussling over?

 

Think right after peak rut is a very effective time to rattle….especially in less pressured areas. Big mature bucks still on the move frantically looking for those few remaining receptive does.

 

The deer inthe background was another buck. He's a small 4 point.

 

None of those deer are “fighting”, they’re not even sparring. Lightly banging antlers together is just a social thing, playful you could say.

 

The deer inthe background was another buck. He's a small 4 point. View attachment 545180

None of those deer are “fighting”, they’re not even sparring. Lightly banging antlers together is just a social thing, playful you could say.

Agree.
IMO these three bucks together is a sure sign the rut in that area is all but wrapped up. Had that third deer been an unbred doe getting ready to cycle you can bet the bucks would have been fighting.