Great Smoky Mountains Natl. Park — As the leaves begin to change in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, so does the behavior of elk.

In the Cataloochee and Oconaluftee areas of the park, elk are searching for their mates. It's known as the elk rut, when bulls begin sparring with each other to exert dominance and attract females.

According to a release from GSMNP, bull elk will begin competing for dominance by "bugling, sparring, and defending their territory." The park said that while watching the behavior can be an unforgettable experience, it is important to remember that the elk will charge or challenge anything they perceive as a threat.

This could include vehicles and even people, GSMNP said.

"Female elk, cows, are also protective of their calves, adding to the stress in elk

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