Few places can compare to Yellowstone National Park when it comes to natural wonders and remarkable wilderness experiences. Over 4 million guests are drawn to the park’s 2.2 million acres hoping to connect with nature, explore a massive number of hydrothermal features, and witness stunning geological wonders like the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Unfortunately people frequently seem to push the boundaries of what’s acceptable with Yellowstone’s wildlife, including with the park’s most dangerous animals.
Yellowstone National Park is home to the largest bison population on public land in the United States. Around 5,400 bison live split between two primary breeding herds in the northern and central regions of the park. Bison are the largest land mammals in North America (weigh up to 2,000 pounds) and they’re shockingly agile, running at speeds up to 35mph.
Despite many warnings to keep a safe distance from these massive animals spread throughout the park, these tourists decided approaching a bison for pictures was a good idea. It seems to start with just one man approaching for a picture, but it slowly gathers to a crowd of more than a dozen all within a few yards. The series of videos are a great display of how just one person acting irresponsibly can lead to a mass of disrespectful behavior.
All animals in Yellowstone National Park need to be given at least 25 yards of space at all times, including bison (bears and wolves should be given at least 100 yards at all times). Approaching too close is dangerous to both the animal and the person. Bison are unpredictable and are responsible for more injuries to people in Yellowstone than any other animal. Use your zoom to take pictures and keep plenty of space between you and the animal. Read more on bison safety below.
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.
