elk

The group of at least three people approached the animal to take photos and ignored warning signs

Cow elk often leave calves hidden while they graze, but will protect them fiercely

The National Park Service has asked repeatedly for people to give the animals more space

Wildlife officials in Colorado have warned hikers visiting Estes Park to give the animals an extra wide berth

Elk and moose prefer to avoid encounters with humans, but are fiercely protective of their young

Sometimes an elk calf might seem to be alone, but its mother is usually close by

Sometimes a calf may seem to be alone, but its mother is usually nearby and won't be happy to see you

A man visiting Estes Park, Colorado, got an important lesson in wildlife safety when he underestimates a limping bull elk

The magnificent animals are one of the main attractions at Estes Park, but it's important to keep a safe distance

The tiny twin calves are adorable with their spindly legs and wobbly gait, but their mother is fiercely protective