Jaw dropping footage from Yellowstone National Park of group of tourists who exited their vehicles for roadside photo opportunity of a momma grizzly bear and her cubs. There’s no telling what would have happened if one of the cubs became curious who was behind the lens and momma’s protective instincts kicked in. What people underestimate is how fast an adult grizzly can close the distance (top speed 35mph). Thankfully this encounter ended peacefully but it goes to show that folks just don’t respect park rules and regulations that are in place for the safety of both the wildlife and visitors alike.
YELLOWSTONE WILDLIFE RULES:
- Never approach wildlife. The animals in Yellowstone are wild and unpredictable, no matter how calm they appear to be. The safest (and often best) view of wildlife is from inside a car. Always stay at least 100 yards (91 m) away from bears and wolves, and at least 25 yards (23 m) away from all other animals, including bison and elk.
- All of Yellowstone is bear habitat, even the boardwalks around Old Faithful (and other thermal areas).
- Never pursue a bear to take its picture. When viewing bears along roads, use pullouts and stay in or near your car.
- Keep all food, garbage, and other scented items stored in bear-proof containers when not in use.
- If a bear approaches or touches your car, honk your horn and drive away to discourage this behavior.
- Follow the best practices for hiking in bear country: be alert, make noise, hike in groups, do not run, carry bear spray and know how to use it.
- If you see someone hurt by a bear, witness aggressive bear behavior, or see a bear obtain or try to obtain human food or garbage, call 911 immediately or notify any park ranger.
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