Who made these ??

[Erict]

It would be helpful to know the tree diameter and the height from the ground.

 

[jmez]

Might be a porcupine.

 

[dr.mooseknuckles]

What part of Alabama?
Rut is definitely going on in parts of the state, definitely on our property in East Central/ Russell County. Had some mature bucks acting rutty right before Christmas.

I'd guess buck as well, but wouldn't rule out a black bear depending on the part of the state. Stands to reason that if a buck was seen in the yard, then it's probably from a buck. Occam's Razor and all

 

[2muchhp]

Time for a camera?