Yellowstone National Park, the world’s first national park, is full of incredible natural features for visitors to check out. Within its 2.2 million acres, tourists can explore geothermal areas with about half the world’s active geysers, view geologic wonders like the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River, and, of course, spot wildlife in a vast, intact ecosystem.
Yellowstone’s wildlife includes 300 species of birds, 16 species of fish, 5 species of amphibians, 6 species of reptiles, and 67 species of mammals. Its mammals range from the small, like mice and weasels, to the massive, like elk and bison. While bears are certainly one of the most popular animals to spot in the park, the 83-123 wolves are arguably a more iconic sight.
While they’re certainly incredible to spot in the wild, approaching these animals, as this guy does, is both dangerous and illegal inside Yellowstone National Park. This video was shared by Keith Kerbs to the Yellowstone National Park: Invasion of The Idiots™! Facebook Group. The clip was captured back in October, and shows a man walking toward several wolves before attempting to hit them with bear spray.
It’s possible the man didn’t see the wolves at first, but he still approaches them once he spots them, putting himself and the animals at risk. Very few documented confrontations between wolves and humans have occurred in Yellowstone National Park, but approaching one nonetheless is both dangerous and illegal. Yellowstone requires that wolves and bears be given at least 100 yards, or 300 feet, of space at all times.
If a wolf does come too close or isn’t showing any fear of people, stand tall and hold your ground. If the animal approaches you, wave your arms, yell, and flare your jacket. If it still approaches, throw something at it or use bear spray. Don’t ever approach the animal, no matter how it’s behaving.
