With the opening of hunting season in many areas surrounding Yellowstone National Park, park officials are reminding hunters of restrictions barring hunting within Yellowstone boundaries. This includes animals legally shot outside Yellowstone which then cross into and die within the park.
Though most of Yellowstone's boundaries are well marked, it is the responsibility of the hunters to ensure they do not hunt in the park.
The Lacey Act and the Code of Federal Regulations strictly prohibit the killing or removal of any animal, living or dead, from inside Yellowstone. Violators are subject to penalties including fines and restitution, and the possible forfeiture of vehicles, equipment and personal property associated with the violations.
Taking and removing any animal parts, including shed antlers, is also prohibited.
-- Kelly Burgess
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Photo: A bull elk in Yellowstone National Park. Hunters in areas near the park will need to be aware of boundaries so that they are not hunting within Yellowstone. Credit: Anne Cusack / Los Angeles Times