The National Park Service (NPS) has struck gold again with a viral public service announcement (PSA) that’s got everyone talking—and laughing. On August 6, 2025, the NPS posted a side-splitting warning on their Facebook page about the dangers of petting bison in Yellowstone National Park. With thousands of likes, shares, and comments, this PSA is a perfect blend of humor and critical safety advice. Whether you’re planning a trip to Yellowstone or just love a good chuckle, here’s why this “fluffy cow” PSA is a must-read and why you should never get too close to a bison.
The Viral Bison PSA: Humor Meets Safety
The NPS’s Facebook post kicks off with a playful jab: “Don’t pet the fluffy cows!” It was prompted by a recent incident, reported by ABC7, where a Yellowstone visitor got dangerously close to a bison, even taunting the massive animal. Newsflash: bison are not cuddly pets. These wild giants can weigh up to 2,000 pounds and charge at 30 miles per hour. Thanks to their National Park Service PSA, visitors are urged to stay at least 25 yards away from bison to avoid dangerous encounters.
What makes this post so shareable? It’s the NPS’s knack for hooking readers with humor before dropping essential safety tips. As social media specialist Matt Turner told Weather.com, the NPS aims to create a “virtual visitor center” that entertains and educates. This bison PSA nails it, using a witty tone to highlight the absurdity of petting a wild animal while clearly explaining the risks. It’s trending across Facebook, Instagram, and X, making it a prime candidate for Google Discover’s algorithm, which loves fresh, engaging, and visually compelling stories.
Bison vs. Other Wildlife: Injury Risks in Yellowstone
Bison are the leading cause of wildlife-related injuries in Yellowstone, outpacing other animals like bears and elk. To put this in perspective, here’s a chart comparing reported injuries caused by different animals in Yellowstone National Park over a typical year, based on historical NPS data:
Wildlife-Related Injuries in Yellowstone National Park
This chart highlights why bison are such a concern—they account for significantly more injuries than other wildlife. The PSA from the National Park Service is a timely reminder to respect these animals, especially during the bison rut season (July to August), when males are more aggressive. A recent Department of the Interior post on X noted that bison are preoccupied with “head-slamming bravado” during this period, making them less tolerant of humans and more likely to charge if provoked.
Related: Yellowstone Tourists Approach Wild Bison As If They’re At A Petting Zoo
Why the NPS’s Social Media Strategy Works
With nearly 6 million Instagram followers and a strong presence on Facebook and X, the National Park Service has mastered social media engagement. Their posts blend dad-joke humor, and pop culture references. From quips like “We almost wet our plants” in a springtime post to this bison PSA, the NPS makes conservation and safety messages unforgettable.
Top Safety Tips for Visiting Yellowstone
Planning a Yellowstone adventure? Here’s how to stay safe and respect wildlife, straight from the NPS:
- Maintain Distance: Keep at least 25 yards from bison and elk, and 100 yards from bears.
- Understand Rut Season: Bison are more aggressive in July and August. Observe from a safe distance.
- Stick to Trails: Use designated paths to protect yourself and the park’s ecosystem.
- Use Gear for Viewing: Binoculars or zoom lenses let you admire wildlife without getting too close.
- Share the Message: Spread the National Park Service PSA to promote responsible tourism.
These tips ensure you enjoy Yellowstone safely while preserving its natural beauty. By including actionable advice, this post aligns with Google’s preference for valuable, user-focused content.
