Elk cow grooming her calf/NPS /Jacob W. Frank.

Elk calving season in Yellowstone has begun, and national park staff warn visitors that while the calves may be cute, their mothers could be dangerous. In fact, cow elk are much more aggressive towards people during the calving season and may charge or kick.

In 2018, for example, a cow elk uncomfortable with a nearby woman at Yellowstone National Park reared up and kicked her several times in the head and back, forcing medical personnel to fly the woman to an Idaho hospital. The 51-year-old woman from Las Vegas, Nevada, worked at the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel. She was attacked behind the hotel by the elk Sunday. Park staff said the elk was protecting a calf bedded down about 20 feet from the woman and out of sight behind some cars. They didn't know if the woman, Charlene Triplett, saw the elk or its calf before she was attacked.

To stay safe:

• Stay alert. Look around corners before exiting buildings or walking around blind spots: cow elk may bed their calves near buildings and cars.
• Keep at least 25 yards from elk at all times. 
• If an elk charges you, find shelter in your vehicle or behind a tall, sturdy barrier as quickly as possible. 
• Remember that you are responsible for your own safety.