VIDEOS: National Park Service Issue Warning About Bull Elk in Light of Recent Encounters
Written by Jessi Entel on September 7, 2023
The National Park Service has issued a reminder to visitors of Yellowstone National Park to stay away from bull elk, especially during fall mating season, also known as the rut.
Bull elk are unpredictable during this time of year and people have been severely injured. Elk run quickly and may change direction without warning so Park Officials recommend staying at least 25 yards away from elk, which is equivilant to two bus lengths.
They also reminded visitors that you are responsible for your own safety.
If an elk charges, park officials recommend finding shelter in your vehicle, or behind a tall, sturdy barrier such as a tree. If no shelter is available, they recommending running away.
It is important to never approach or pursue wildlife to take photos with them. Officials recommend, that you “give them room, use your zoom”. Lenses with focal lengths of 300mm or greater are recommended for best reach.
And as always, follow directions from park rangers.
On the social media page Tourons of Yellowstone, a platform dedicated to showcasing bad behaviors in National Parks, they recently shared some footage of various visitors at different parks have close calls with elk.
Here are some of our favorites:
1. Touron in Jasper
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2. The Yellowstone Selfie
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3. Tourons of Rocky Mountain National Park
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4. Gardiner Cow Elk Selfie
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5. Where the Elk and the Children Play?
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For more information of how to stay safe in Yellowstone National Park, please visit their website.
