A man visiting Yellowstone National Park from Cape Coral, Florida, was gored by a bison after approaching it too closely in the Lake Village area of the park. This marks the park’s first bison-related injury of 2025. The 47-year-old sustained only minor injuries and was treated by emergency personnel, according to a park release.
Park officials didn’t give specific details about the incident, but used it as an opportunity to warn other visitors to follow wildlife viewing guidelines.
Bison have injured more people in Yellowstone than any other animal. They can often be aggressive when approached, and the park recommends visitors stay at least 25 yards away.
At six feet tall and over 2000 pounds, bison are North America’s largest land mammal. These giants are often seen peacefully grazing or moving in herds throughout the park, but they can run up to 35 mph and can be unpredictable when they feel threatened.
Last year, there were two reported injuries from bison. In 2023, there was one.
Wildlife safety rules from Yellowstone National Park
From boiling hot springs to thousands of wild animals, some of the hazards in Yellowstone will be new to you. Protect yourself and the sights you plan to enjoy by following a few simple rules:
- Never approach wildlife. The animals in Yellowstone are wild and unpredictable, no matter how calm they appear to be. The safest (and often best) view of wildlife is from inside a car. Always stay at least 100 yards (91 m) away from bears and wolves, and at least 25 yards (23 m) away from all other animals, including bison and elk.
- Stay on boardwalks and trails in thermal areas. Hot springs have injured or killed more people in Yellowstone than any other natural feature. Keep your children close and don’t let them run.
- Never feed wildlife. Animals that become dependent on human food may become aggressive toward people and have to be killed. Keep all food, garbage, or other smelly items packed away when not in use.
- Never park in the road or block traffic. Use pullouts to watch wildlife and let other cars pass. Stay with your vehicle if you encounter a wildlife jam.
