Video Shows Elk Charging Photo-Taking Tourist at Yellowstone

Officials say tourists should stay at least 100 yards from bears and wolves and 25 yards from other wildlife

A woman who tried to take a picture of an elk during a visit to Yellowstone National Park got a lot closer than she expected when it charged at her.

Video posted on Facebook by tour guide Jody Tibbitts captured audio of him trying to warn the woman to back away. It's been viewed more than one million times. 

“Ma’am? Ma’am? Could you please?” Tibbitts shouted out before the elk rushed her. 

The elk stopped short and backed away. The woman, who appeared to fall to the ground, got back up and walked out of frame. 

“I was just going to tell you you were too close to that elk,” Tibbitts called out to her. “Twenty-five yards, ma’am.” 

The park service says visitors should stay at least 100 yards from bears and wolves and at least 25 yards from all other wildlife.

“Won’t happen again,” she shouted back. 

“I’m sure it won’t.” 

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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