Bison headbutts passing car @ Yellowstone National Park.
Bison headbutts passing car @ Yellowstone National Park.

Yellowstone National Park offers truly exceptional wilderness and wildlife experiences, with some of the most unique North American animals showing up just feet from major roads. Bison, North America’s largest land mammal, are a common sight and often cause traffic jams as visitors stop to watch them.

Believe it or not, bison have actually injured more people in Yellowstone than any other animal. They’re unpredictable and can run three times faster than humans, often viewing close approaching people as threats. In some cases, like the one below, bison have even been seen attacking vehicles that come to close.

While most people don’t want to see their car attacked by a wild animal, it’s significantly safer to stay inside the vehicle when bison are close by. Bison should always be given at least 25 yards of space in Yellowstone. If you encounter wildlife along the road remember that they always have the right of way. Use pullouts to watch wildlife and always stay with your vehicle if you encounter a wildlife jam. Read more on bison safety below.

NPS Distance Chart.
NPS Distance Chart.

Yellowstone National Park 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.
NPS
NPS

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