YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, Wyoming – A crew of tourists in Yellowstone National Park didn’t read the bison rules before trying to get some good pictures, moving right up close and personal to one of the animals. The guy in the red shirt is clearly the worst, but no one in the group is far enough away.
Yellowstone Bison Safety Guidelines:
- 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.
Every animal in Yellowstone needs to be given plenty of space, no matter the size or ferocity. Bears and wolves should be given at least 100 yards, while bison, elk, and other animals should be given 25. That’s 300 feet and 75 feet, so about the length eight school busses for bears and wolves, and the length of two school busses for every other animal. And remember, human food and wildlife don’t mix.
“Never feed wildlife, even birds and squirrels. Animals that become dependent on human food may become aggressive toward people and have to be killed. Animals also carry diseases that can be transmitted to people. Be especially watchful around ravens: they can unzip or unfasten many different kinds of buckles and latches.“