You may encounter wildlife while walking trails in national parks – but it’s never a good idea to get too close. In 2022, an Ohio tourist was seriously injured when he approached a bison while visiting Yellowstone National Park.
Yellowstone safety guidelines recommend keeping at least 25 yards between you and any wildlife, but this visitor came within 10 feet of the bison in question. The bison was frightened, or perhaps angered, by her approach, but it horned her and threw her “ten feet in the air,” according to ABC News.
“Yellowstone National Park’s wildlife is wild and can be dangerous when approached,” the National Park Service explained in a press release. “…Bison injure more people in Yellowstone than any other animal. They are unpredictable and can run three times faster than humans.”
The 25-yard rule — which can be increased to 100 yards for predators like wolves, mountain lions and bears — exists for a reason. Animal reactions to humans cannot be explained, and therefore, human-wildlife encounters can easily escalate.
The woman was taken to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center for treatment and survived the confrontation. Two other park visitors also came within 25 yards of the bison.
Anywhere in the world, getting close to wild animals can be dangerous and even fatal for both humans and animals. Worse, in some cases, animals that attack humans – even if provoked – may be euthanized by local authorities.
The NPS maintains safety guidelines on its website and encourages individuals to raise awareness.
“The safest way to observe wildlife is through a telephoto lens, spotting scope or binoculars,” these experts note. “Animals in the park are wild and dangerous. Bison, bears and elk have maimed or killed people. Do not approach, surround, follow or feed any animals.”
The NPS adds on its Yellowstone safety page, “If necessary, turn around and go the other way if a bison is walking within 25 yards.”
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