Everyday Yellowstone National Park is the backdrop for intense wildlife encounters but sometimes what may appear to be a life or death struggle is actually something far more nuanced.
Last week photographer Neil Simmons caught this interaction between a bison and lone wolf that may look like the end game of an apex predator targeting a vulnerable prey animal but he is quick to point out the wolf’s intent was to test the bison for signs of weakness.
“The wolf was merely testing the bison to see if it was injured, fully knowing it couldn’t take down a bison on its own. The wolf certainly got more than it bargained for as the bison chased him off quickly.” -Neil Simmons
Adult bison weigh up to 2000lbs and are formidable prey for a lone wolf. The wolf’s probing attack was a calculated tactic to determine if it was in a weakened state and compromised enough to take down by itself. Fortunately for the bison, it proved fit to defend against its much smaller adversary and quickly turned the tables on the wolf, launching an effective counter offensive.
Yellowstone National Park offers unparalleled opportunities to observe wildlife in an intact ecosystem and this great privilege comes with a responsibility for visitors to follow Park guidelines designed to keep people safe.
“Enjoy watching Yellowstone’s animals but stay safe. They are wild and dangerous. Know your distance.” -Yellowstone National Park
Learn more about Yellowstone wildlife safety guidelines below:
Yellowstone National Park Wildlife Safety Guidelines:
Yellowstone’s scenic wonders are sure to take your breath away: don’t let them take your life.
Bison Safety:
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.
Wolf Safety:
Wolves are not normally a danger to people, unless they become habituated to their presence and food (there has never been an attack in Yellowstone). Two habituated wolves have been killed in the park. Help us protect wolves in Yellowstone by:
- Remaining at least 100 yards away when watching or photographing them.
- Telling a ranger if you see wolves near developed areas or approaching people.
- Keeping your dog leashed at all times when it’s outside a vehicle.
If you’re concerned about a wolf because it’s too close or not showing any fear of people, stand tall and hold your ground. If the wolf approaches you, wave your arms, yell, and flare your jacket. If that doesn’t discourage it, throw something at it or use bear spray. Group up with other people, continue waving and yelling, and tell a ranger as soon as possible.