“Harassing a bull elk during the rut is not the smartest thing to do, and it's illegal,” writes Next Trekking Adventure in the caption. “If you see this type of behavior, please report it to rangers.”

Yes, it is strictly illegal for visitors to use "elk bugles," "cow calls," or any other mechanical or vocal devices to attract or interact with elk (or any wildlife) in Yellowstone National Park. According to federal regulations (36 CFR 2.2), "engaging in any activity that intentionally disturbs, displaces, or disrupts the natural behavior of wildlife" is a punishable offense. Calling elk is considered a form of wildlife harassment because it can interfere with their natural mating rituals (the "rut"), cause them to move toward humans (increasing the risk of attacks), or lead them away from vital feeding grounds. If caught, violators can face heavy fines, the confiscation of their calling equipment, and even potential jail time or a permanent ban from the park. In 2026, Park Rangers have increased patrols during the autumn rutting season specifically to catch "wildlife photographers" and "enthusiasts" who try to manipulate animal movement for a better shot. The park's policy is "viewing from a distance"—at least 25 yards for elk and 100 yards for bears or wolves—to ensure both human safety and the preservation of the animals' wild instincts.