YELLOWSTONE, Wyoming – Bull elk can get really testy during rut, or the elk mating season, that occurs during September and October. People should always be giving these animals plenty of space, but that’s especially true with elk during the mating season. Plenty of space means 25 yards and that includes people inside vehicles.
Bull elk are super popular for pictures in Yellowstone, and it’s easy to see why. Their massive antlers and big stature make for quite the photo. But it also makes them strong and dangerous, and antagonizing them can lead to some serious consequences. The cars in this video, for example faced the consequences.
The people inside the smaller red truck in the video, the second one to be charged, appeared to be attempting to call the elk, whether for a good picture or their own entertainment. Mimicking any animal, whether it’s a bird, bear, or elk, is considered harassment and is illegal inside U.S. national parks. Leave animal calls at home, and don’t boot up those animal sound apps.
National Park Service on what to leave at home when viewing wildlife:
- Food for animals – Do not feed birds or any other wildlife in national parks. This is dangerous to you and the animal, and it’s against the law. When wildlife eat human food, it can lead to serious consequences, like getting sick, catching diseases, or even having to be killed if they become too aggressive looking for more food. Wildlife looking for food can approach humans resulting in injury.
- Animal/bird calls – Do not use bird calls, or apps that imitate animal sounds. Mimicking animal sounds is considered harassment, which is illegal. Using animal calls can also harm wildlife. For example, it can cause birds to leave their nests, leaving their young vulnerable to predation. Animals who feel threatened may try to protect themselves resulting in human injury.
- Spotlights/laser pointers – Spotlights and laser pointers can be disruptive to animals and are prohibited items in some parks.
- Pets – Pets are prohibited on most trails in national parks, so it’s best to leave them behind during your visit. They may chase or threaten wildlife, scaring small animals away or becoming prey for larger predators. Wildlife may also chase or threaten your pet. Dogs may bark and cause unfamiliar sounds and smells that can disturb wildlife. Pets may also carry or catch diseases or parasites. Where pets are allowed, be a BARK ranger and Bag your pet’s waste, Always leash your pet, Respect wildlife, and Know where you can go.
