Yellowstone National Park is home to the only continuously wild population of bison in the United States, which rebounded from just 23 individuals in the early 1900s to a genetically healthy, single interbreeding herd of approximately 4,000 to 6,000 animals today. Yellowstone’s bison population is an overwhelming conservation success story and role model for ongoing wildlife management efforts.
Although Yellowstone’s bison may appear calm and approachable as they graze or rest, this perception is dangerously misleading as bison are responsible for more injuries to park visitors than any other species in the park. To avoid future instances of bison injuring tourists, the park has strict regulations dictating to remain at least 25 yards away from bison at all times.
Despite ample signage and educational initiatives, tourists intrude on this prescribed protective radius every day like these folks who exited their vehicles to take pictures of group of bison in Hayden Valley and ended up scurrying for safety when they realized the 2000lbs animals were heading in their direction.
If you are wondering why Yellowstone is so zealous about tourists not approaching bison, look no further than this June 10th press release from the park detailing an incident where a 30-year-old man from Randolph, New Jersey was gored by a bison after getting too close.
Remember folks, Yellowstone’s bison can be aggressive if people don’t respect their space and the consequences of approaching them can be severe. Learn more about bison safety at Yellowstone National Park 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.
