While our National Parks are operating with skeleton crews during the government shutdown its important to remember that the rules protecting both wildlife and the visitors observing wildlife still apply.
The following video was taken along a road inside Yellowstone National Park of a family who decided it was grand idea to approach a bison for a photo session. The person filming the scene is appalled by the actions of the mother as she points her fingers in the air impersonating the 2,000lbs animal directly behind her. Her disapproval turns to concern once the mother encouraged her small child to join her next to the bison and throw up make believe horns.
Thankfully the woman and her child did not antagonize the bison to the point where it defended it space but it very well could have. As a reminder, bison are far more athletic than they may appear and are capable of running 35mph and jumping 6 feet vertically. If you get to close a bison and its decides you are threat, there is little that can be done. While there may not be the normal level of staff patrolling Yellowstone and the rest of our National Parks as we enter the 16th day of the federal government shutdown, we hope that visitors abide by park rules and regulations in their absence. Learn more about bison safety at Yellowstone National Park below.
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 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.
