Fearing the baby bison was “cold,” a father and son, who were visiting Yellowstone National Park from another country, decided to take it upon themselves to load the frightened animal into their vehicle.
According to East Idaho News, the pair appeared to be concerned over the health of the animal when they arrived with it in the trunk of their SUV at a ranger station on Monday, May 9.
“They were demanding to speak with a ranger,” witness Karen Richardson told the news. “They were seriously worried that the calf was freezing and dying.”
Another witness, Rob Heusevelet, said the father and son “didn’t care” when they were told they weren’t allowed to pick the bison up. “They sincerely thought they were doing a service and helping that calf by trying to save it from the cold,” Heusevelet said.
Park rangers reportedly released the bison back where the tourists found it, but no before issuing a hefty ticket to the animal lovers.
The National Park Service did not immediately respond to a request for comment. It warned visitors on its website not to approach wild animals and to stay at least 100 yards away from large animals, including bison—even if they’re cute.