Bison Tosses Man 8 Feet in the Air at Yellowstone, Video Shows
A 65-year-old man was thrown approximately eight feet into the air by a bison that charged at him in Yellowstone National Park, according to video footage of the incident. The encounter highlights the risks associated with interacting with wildlife in their natural habitat.
The incident occurred on Monday near the Old Faithful geyser area, a popular tourist spot. The man, whose identity has not been released, sustained injuries and received medical attention. The video clearly shows the bison's aggressive reaction and the force with which it impacted the man.
This event underscores the dangers of approaching wildlife in national parks. Bison are powerful and unpredictable animals, capable of reaching speeds up to 35 miles per hour. Park regulations advise visitors to maintain a minimum distance of 25 yards (about 23 meters) from bison and other large mammals, and 100 yards (about 91 meters) from bears and wolves.
Yellowstone National Park is home to approximately 4,500 bison.
Bison are the largest land mammals in North America, with adult males weighing up to 2,000 pounds and females up to 1,100 pounds. Their size, strength, and territorial instincts can make them a hazard to visitors who do not maintain a safe distance.
According to the National Park Service, bison have injured more people in Yellowstone than any other animal. Multiple incidents in recent years have involved visitors being gored or injured when they failed to adhere to safety guidelines, often when attempting to photograph or get too close to the animals. Bison can charge without warning if they perceive a threat.
The video footage, which has circulated online, shows the man standing relatively close to a bison. The animal then charges, lifting the man into the air before he falls to the ground. Other visitors are seen reacting with alarm, and the speed and ferocity of the charge are evident.
Park officials emphasize that Yellowstone is a wild place and visitors are guests. "We urge visitors to be aware of their surroundings and to give all wildlife, especially bison, plenty of space," a park spokesperson stated. "Approaching wildlife, feeding wildlife, or harassing wildlife is dangerous and can result in serious injury or death."
Park officials are investigating the exact circumstances leading up to the charge, including the man's proximity to the bison and any actions he may have taken. The man's survival of the encounter is noted.
Such incidents can lead to increased scrutiny of park management and calls for stricter enforcement of regulations and public education campaigns.
The investigation will likely review the incident in the context of past bison encounters to identify contributing factors and prevent future occurrences. The goal is to reinforce the message that Yellowstone’s wildlife must be observed from a safe distance.
The National Park Service will likely review the man's actions and reinforce safety protocols. Educational materials and signage may be updated. Visitors are reminded that they are entering a wild ecosystem and must exercise extreme caution and respect for the animals' space and natural behaviors.