Yellowstone National Park’s 4,550 bison are among the most important in the United States, representing the nation’s largest population on public land. Additionally they are the only population in the lower 48 state to have lived continuously in the same area since prehistoric times.Â
Visitors to the park can experience unparalleled opportunities to watch this ancient bison population across Yellowstone’s 2.2 million acres, becoming a highlight for many tourists. Occasionally these encounters occur on the road, with the animals shutting down traffic and creating quite the sight for the public. Such was the case when this jam halted traffic on one of Yellowstone National Park’s bridges.
Yellowstone National Park highlights that the best place to watch any wildlife is from inside your car, as done in this video. If you encounter a wildlife jam in the park you’re asked to stay with your vehicle. While bison seem large and gentle, they’ve injured more people in the park than any other animal. Always keep at least 25 yards (75 feet) between you and bison. Read more on bison safety below:
Yellowstone National Park 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.