JACKSON, Wyo. — Hold onto that horsepower while driving in Grand Teton National Park (GTNP) to avoid a collision with wildlife, the park is warning visitors.
The most important things to do to prevent a run-in with an animal are to slow down and to stay alert. Keep in mind that night speed limits are often lower.
Collisions between vehicles and wildlife have been on the rise in the park, GTNP warns. In the past five years, a hoofed animal has been involved in a collision an average of every five days.
So far this year, GTNP reports there have been at least 88 known incidents with cars and animals. Animals either died in these collisions or died later of injuries. Here are the stats:
- 45 incidents involving ungulates (hoofed animals)
- 40 incidents involving small mammals and birds
- Two incidents involving black bears
- One incident with a wolf
By the end of last year, a total of 27 different species had been involved in collisions, according to GTNP. That included bison, wolves, grouse and more.
“Reducing your speed and staying alert can save wildlife in the parks or wherever you are,” the park reminded visitors on its Facebook page. “Let’s give wildlife a BRAKE!”
