Yellowstone National Park guide Andrea Baratte captured footage of one of the first bison calf born in the park this year. Bison in the area typically mate in late July through August and give birth to one calf in late April or May with 80% of bison calf having a birthdate in those two months, but births are possible before and after this period.
Unfortunately calves born in late March or early April tend to have a lower chance of survival. The Yellowstone bison population ranges from 3,500 to nearly 6,000, with the 2024 population estimate being 5,400.
Bison begin spring by leaving their winter ranges and following the “green wave” of sprouting plants and grasses that most ungulates in Yellowstone follow, but they’ll let it pass as they graze. They spend their time doubling back to graze the same areas at high intensity, keeping plants growing while taking advantage of highly nutritious foods.
Bison calves are quite the sight for tourists but they should never be approached by people. The large animals are very protective of their young and will defend calves from any dangers as a group. Bison have injured more people in Yellowstone National Park than any other animal. Read more on bison safety below:
Yellowstone National Park Bison Safety Guidelines:
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.