"In terms of human safety, this was a dangerous activity because adult animals are very protective of their young and will act aggressively to defend them," Warthin wrote in a news release. "In addition, interference by people can cause mothers to reject their offspring."

The incident is the latest example of some park tourists showing either ignorance or disdain for park rules that require visitors to keep their distance from wild animals.

"In recent weeks, visitors in the park have been engaging in inappropriate, dangerous and illegal behavior with wildlife," Warthin wrote. "These actions endanger people and have now resulted in the death of a newborn bison calf."

In a video posted online in April, a Yellowstone tourist was filmed trying to pet an adult bison in the Old Faithful area. Another video featured visitors posing for pictures with bison. Last year, five visitors were seriously injured when they approached bison too closely. Bison injure more visitors to Yellowstone than any other animal.

Park regulations require that visitors stay at least 25 yards away from all wildlife (including bison, elk and deer) and at least 100 yards away from bears and wolves. Disregarding the regulations can result in fines, injury and even death.

"For us it is almost like a call to action ... to share the message of visitors respecting wildlife and staying away," Warthin said. "We are doing what we can to make people aware that they are drastically affecting wildlife's well being" when they approach too close.

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