During Yellowstone National Park’s annual elk mating season, 10,000 to 20,000 elk descend to low lying areas of the park with heavily concentrated activity around places like Mammoth Hot Springs. Tourist also flock to Yellowstone at this time of year for the unique opportunity to observe one of most dramatic displays in the animal kingdom.
To help control the crowds in developed areas where elk tend to congregate, Yellowstone deploys specially trained seasonal crews equipped with bullhorns and bear spray known as The Elk Patrol. The Elk Patrol is tasked with ensuring visitor don’t get too close to elk and in some instances that means directing people to seek shelter from the aggressive and unpredictable ungulates.
Such was the case for this group of tourists who sought temporary refuge in a Yellowstone restroom as a bull elk approached their position. As you can see from the video, The Elk Patrol stays extremely busy this time of year:
Although the Elk Patrol is quite helpful in keeping the viewing public safe during the rut, Yellowstone visitor safety is ultimately dependent on the individuals adherence to park rules. The first and by far the most important rule is to remain at least 75 feet away from elk at all times. To learn more about proper elk safety etiquette at Yellowstone read the safety guidelines below:
Yellowstone National Park Safety Guidelines:
Yellowstone’s scenic wonders are sure to take your breath away: don’t let them take your life. From boiling hot springs to thousands of wild animals, some of the hazards in Yellowstone will be new to you. Protect yourself and the sights you plan to enjoy by following a few simple rules:
- Never approach wildlife
The animals in Yellowstone are wild and unpredictable, no matter how calm they appear to be. The safest (and often best) view of wildlife is from inside a car. Always stay at least 100 yards (91 m) away from bears and wolves, and at least 25 yards (23 m) away from all other animals, including bison and elk. - Stay on boardwalks and trails in thermal areas
Hot springs have injured or killed more people in Yellowstone than any other natural feature. Keep your children close and don’t let them run. - Never feed wildlife
Animals that become dependent on human food may become aggressive toward people and have to be killed. Keep all food, garbage, or other smelly items packed away when not in use. - Never park in the road or block traffic
Use pullouts to watch wildlife and let other cars pass. Stay with your vehicle if you encounter a wildlife jam.
Elk
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.
