YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, Wyo. (AP) — Visitors are being asked to be cautious as the elk rut begins in Yellowstone National Park.

Park spokesman Al Nash says bull elk are much more aggressive toward people and vehicles this time of year, and visitors should keep a safe distance from the animals and look around corners before exiting buildings or walking around blind spots.

Several vehicles are damaged by elk every year, and people are occasionally charged and injured.

Nash says park staff and volunteers are patrolling areas like Mammoth Hot Springs when elk are present. Visitors should stay at least 25 yards away from most large animals in the park and at least 100 yards away from bears and wolves.

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