On Saturday, a human-wildlife incident occurred at Yellowstone National Park when an 83-year-old woman from Greenville, South Carolina was gored by a bison near the Storm Point Trail at Yellowstone Lake. The encounter highlights the critical importance of following park safety guidelines regarding wildlife.
The woman, who was reportedly too close to the bison, was lifted about a foot off the ground by the animal’s horns, resulting in serious injuries. Park emergency responders quickly transported her to the Lake Medical Clinic, from where she was airlifted to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center for further treatment.
This incident is currently under investigation, and further details about the woman’s condition have not been released. Yellowstone National Park officials continue to stress the importance of keeping a safe distance from wildlife. Visitors are reminded to stay at least 25 yards away from large animals like bison, elk, and deer, and at least 100 yards from predators such as bears and wolves.
Bison have injured more people in Yellowstone than any other animal. While they are not inherently aggressive, they will defend their space if threatened. Bison are capable of running three times faster than humans, making close encounters particularly dangerous.
The park encourages all visitors to educate themselves on safe behavior around wildlife and to take the Yellowstone Pledge, promising to protect the park and its inhabitants by following established guidelines. The safety of both visitors and wildlife depends on adherence to these rules.
