YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK — A 12-year-old visitor to Yellowstone National Park (YNP) was injured in a bison encounter this morning, according to an announcement by the park.
The incident occurred around 9:15 a.m. near Mud Volcano, north of Fishing Bridge, per YNP. The park has provided scant details thus far.
“The visitor sustained injuries, and emergency medical personnel transported them to a nearby hospital,” YNP’s Friday afternoon statement reads. “The incident remains under investigation.”
Two separate bison incidents occurred in Yellowstone last year: a goring in May and another in June. There were two incidents in 2024 and one in 2023.
The park took the opportunity to remind visitors of safe wildlife viewing practices.
“Wild animals can be aggressive when people do not respect their space,” YNP stated. “Visitors are responsible for staying at least 25 yards away from all large animals including bison, elk, bighorn sheep, deer, moose and coyotes, and at least 100 yards away from bears, wolves and cougars. If wildlife approach you, move away to maintain the required distance. Never approach, touch, feed or crowd wildlife, even if an animal appears calm.”
Bison defend their space if they feel threatened, the park added, noting that bison have injured more park visitors than any other animal. Bison can reach speeds of up to 35 mph.
“The safety of visitors and wildlife depends on everyone using good judgment and following park regulations,” YNP said.
Earlier this year, a 70-year-old woman died after being struck by a bison in South Dakota’s Custer State Park.
