Tourists at Yellowstone National Park recently experienced a close encounter with a bison while observing bears from a bridge over the Lamar River. Although the visitors were safely photographing the bears with telephoto lenses from a distance, their focus on the scene below caused them to overlook an approaching bison on the bridge behind them.
Park officials emphasize the importance of maintaining situational awareness when viewing wildlife. While the group adhered to park advice to “give wildlife room, use a zoom,” their narrow focus nearly resulted in a dangerous situation. Fortunately, the bison appeared indifferent and passed the group without incident, though it startled several individuals.
“The safest way to view wildlife is through a telephoto lens, a spotting scope, or a pair of binoculars. Park animals are wild and dangerous,” Yellowstone National Park stated.
Bison, while often appearing calm, are unpredictable and responsible for more injuries to park visitors than any other animal. Park regulations require visitors to remain at least 25 yards (23 meters) from bison at all times, even in developed areas such as campsites, boardwalks, and parking lots.
Yellowstone’s bison safety guidelines advise visitors to turn back or change routes if a bison is nearby. Approaching a bison can provoke defensive behavior such as bluff charging, head bobbing, pawing, bellowing, or snorting—signs of an imminent charge. In such cases, park authorities instruct individuals to leave the area immediately and, if necessary, use bear spray while retreating.
This incident serves as a reminder that while technology allows for safe wildlife observation from a distance, personal awareness remains a critical element of safety in the park’s dynamic and untamed environment.
