YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, Wyoming – There are a few reasons why bison might stampede, from perceived threats to just general chain reactions. It’s not clear what sparked this one, but it’s pretty clear that the people running in the opposite direction made the right choice.
Yellowstone’s bison population is the nation’s largest on public land. Around 4,550 bison are allowed to roam free throughout the park, existing continuously since prehistoric times and surviving market hunting and the US Army throughout the 1800s. By 1902, poaching had reduced the population to just a few dozen, and up until 1968, herd reduction kept the population at a noted size. In 2000s, herd reduction has once again continued, but the bison population flourishes.
Yellowstone National Park on Safely Viewing Bison:
“Bison have injured more people in Yellowstone than any other animal. Bison are unpredictable and can run three times faster than humans. Always stay at least 25 yards (23 m) away from bison.
- Give bison space when they are near a campsite, trail, boardwalk, parking lot, or in a developed area. If need be, turn around and go the other way to avoid interacting with a wild animal in close proximity.
- Approaching bison threatens them, and they may respond by bluff charging, head bobbing, pawing, bellowing, or snorting. These are warning signs that you are too close and that a charge is imminent.
- Do not stand your ground. Immediately walk or run away from the animal. Spray bear spray as you are moving away if the animal follows you“