Yellowstone National Park recently witnessed another incident involving its iconic bison, which are known for their size and strength. On Tuesday, June 10, a man from Randolph, New Jersey, was injured in a bison attack. The 30-year-old was part of a large group of visitors and was injured after getting too close to the animal. The incident occurred near the Upper Geyser Basin, close to the famous Old Faithful geyser, at approximately 9:45 AM.
The park officials confirmed that the man suffered minor injuries and was treated by emergency medical personnel. The National Park Service has since emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe distance from wildlife, particularly large animals like bison. They advise visitors to stay at least 25 yards away from such animals to prevent incidents like this from happening.
Park authorities also highlighted that bison pose a significant risk, having injured more visitors than any other animal in Yellowstone. ‘Bison have injured more people in Yellowstone than any other animal,’ officials stated. ‘They are unpredictable and can run up to three times faster than humans.’
This is the second incident involving bison and visitors in 2025, with a similar case reported in May when a tourist from Florida was gored after ignoring safety warnings. Last year, there were two such incidents, illustrating a concerning pattern of tourists disregarding safety protocols.
Why do bison pose such a threat?
Bison, once roaming freely in the western United States, faced near extinction due to overhunting in the 1800s. Today, Yellowstone hosts the largest herd of wild bison, numbering about 4,800 animals. Despite conservation efforts that have helped their numbers rebound from fewer than 600 in 1889, these animals still demand respect due to their size and power. Males can stand up to 6 feet tall, weigh around 2,000 pounds, and reach speeds of 35 miles per hour.
Wildlife experts stress that any approach to wild animals, especially in national parks, can be dangerous. The park’s guidelines recommend maintaining a safe distance to avoid provoking the animals, which may defend their space aggressively. The park’s safety advice remains clear: keep at least 25 yards away from large animals and 100 yards away from predators like bears or wolves.
Recent attacks and the importance of respecting wildlife
The recent attack is not an isolated incident. In 2024, Yellowstone reported two similar injuries caused by bison, along with one in 2023. These repeated incidents highlight the need for visitors to follow safety regulations closely. Ignoring these warnings can lead to serious consequences for both humans and animals.
Efforts to educate visitors about wildlife safety continue, but the cases of tourists getting too close—often resulting in injury—persist. The park’s strict guidelines aim to protect both visitors and the animals, whose populations are carefully managed and protected.
Understanding the importance of respecting wild animals
Bison are a vital part of North America’s ecological history, and their protection has been a major conservation success. Yet, their unpredictable nature reminds us to approach wildlife with caution and respect. As park officials warn, ‘Once a wild animal feels threatened, it can react violently,’ underscoring the importance of adhering to safety measures.
For those planning to visit Yellowstone or similar parks, the key takeaway is simple: enjoy the beauty of nature from a safe distance. Respecting wildlife not only ensures your safety but also helps preserve these majestic creatures for generations to come.
Will you heed the warnings and keep a safe distance on your next visit to Yellowstone? Remember, a respectful approach to wildlife is the best way to enjoy nature’s wonders safely and responsibly.
