The National Park Service just issued a zinger of a public service announcement warning motorists not to honk at bison as it only make them move slower due to their legendary level of passive aggressiveness:
NPS officials also had some sage advice for clueless tourists looking to snap selfies with bison as we approach the peak months of national park visitation:
“Sharing the landscape with bison is all about awareness and respect. Nearly all animal/human injuries happen when people get too close, often while trying to snap that perfect selfie. Pro tip: Snapping a selfie is much more difficult when doing an impromptu backflip off the front a bison.”
Remember folks, The National Park Service manages approximately 9,700 bison in 10 national park units and every single one of them is capable of causing grievous injury to anyone that intrudes on their personal space.
Key Bison Safety Tips:
-Stay at least 25 yards (about 75 feet) away at all times—roughly the length of two school buses or the distance where your thumb can fully cover the bison when you close one eye.
-Never approach them for a photo. Use a camera with a telephoto/zoom lens instead.
-If you’re in your vehicle, stay inside.
-If a bison decides to claim a parking spot (yes, it happens), honking won’t help. You’ll just end up in a standoff until you give up and drive (or walk) away. Yeah, you’re not getting that spot.
In conclusion, respect their space, and everyone gets to enjoy the view safely. Bison included.
