YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, Wyoming – If there’s a bad time to mess with elk, it’s during rut, or their mating season. During September and October, elk form into groups called harems, with one bull and several cows. This time period leaves bulls more agressive, ready to fight other males or if they feel threatened, charge at people. It’s always important to keep plenty of space between yourself and wildlife, but it might be even more true for elk during rut season.
Yellowstone has a summer population of around 10,000–20,000 elk, split into six or seven herds. With their massive antlers, bull elk are among the most photographed animals inside the national park, which can lead to some less-than ideal decisions from those helping to snap the perfect picture.
Bears and wolves in Yellowstone should always be given 100 yards of space (300 feet), but any other animal still needs to be given at least 25 yards (75 feet). Rut tends to make bull elk heavily protective of their harem, and getting to close to one of the cows, not just the bull, can illicit an agressive response. The bull elk in this clip charged at the guy from a good distance away, as the guy was likely too close to the nearby cows.
Yellowstone Elk Safety:
Cow elk are especially fierce and protective around their calves in the spring. Around Mammoth Hot Springs, they often hide calves near cars or buildings. Be cautious when exiting buildings or approaching blind corners. In the fall, bull elk battle for access to cows and challenge other males during the rut. They also charge cars and people who get too close.
- Always stay at least 25 yards (23 m) away from elk.
- In an elk charges, get away! Retreat to shelter in a building or vehicle or behind a tall, sturdy barrier as quickly as possible.
