I hunted Western Montana last weekend for Elk. I walked in a few miles, took a break and then began to hear more screeching, bugling and cow calling then I ever had. In fact, I thought it was other hunters. I stayed put for awhile and the elk showed up. These Elk were rutting. One bull had his nose so far up a Cow's ass you could barely see it. It did not turn out good for me, but it was interesting as I thought any rutting activity would be long over. Not sure what the deal would be in western wash.