YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK — A 47-year-old man was gored by a bison in Yellowstone National Park (YNP) over the weekend, the park has announced.
On Sunday, May 4, a man from Cape Coral, Florida, was injured by a bison in the Lake Village area of the park “after he approached it too closely,” YNP stated.
“The individual sustained minor injuries and was treated by emergency medical personnel,” YNP said in a statement, noting that the incident remains under investigation and that no further details are available.
This is the first reported bison incident in the park this year. YNP noted that 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 if people don’t respect their space,” YNP stated. “It is your responsibility to stay more than 25 yards (23 meters) away from all large animals – bison, elk, bighorn sheep, deer, moose and coyotes – and at least 100 yards (91 meters) away from bears and wolves. If wildlife approach you, move away to always maintain these safe viewing distances.”
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 these animals – and humans – depends on everyone using good judgment and following these simple rules,” YNP said.
