What's happened
A 47-year-old man from Cape Coral, Florida, was gored by a bison at Yellowstone National Park on May 4, 2025. The incident, which occurred in the Lake Village area, marks the first bison-related injury of the year. The man sustained minor injuries and received medical treatment on-site.
What's behind the headline?
Key Insights
- Visitor Safety: The incident underscores the ongoing risks associated with wildlife encounters in national parks. Visitors are reminded that bison can run three times faster than humans and weigh up to 2,000 pounds.
- Park Regulations: Yellowstone's regulations require visitors to maintain a distance of at least 25 yards from bison. This incident highlights the need for strict adherence to these guidelines to prevent injuries.
- Historical Context: Previous years have seen multiple bison-related injuries, including serious cases. For instance, in 2024, an 83-year-old woman was severely injured after being gored by a bison, emphasizing the unpredictability of these animals.
- Public Awareness: The park's messaging about wildlife safety is crucial. With millions of visitors each year, continuous education on safe practices is essential to minimize risks and protect both visitors and wildlife.
What the papers say
According to the New York Post, the man was attacked after getting too close to the bison, which is a common cause of such incidents. The Independent reported that this marks the first bison-related injury in Yellowstone for 2025, reiterating the park's warnings about maintaining a safe distance. AP News emphasized that bison have injured more people in Yellowstone than any other animal, highlighting the importance of visitor education on wildlife safety. Each source reinforces the need for caution when interacting with wildlife in national parks.
How we got here
Bison attacks in Yellowstone are not uncommon, with previous incidents resulting in serious injuries. Park officials emphasize the importance of maintaining a safe distance from wildlife, particularly bison, which can be aggressive when approached.
Go deeper
- What are the safety guidelines for visiting Yellowstone?
- How common are bison attacks in national parks?
- What should visitors do if they encounter wildlife?
Common question
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What Should Visitors Know About Bison Safety in Yellowstone?
Yellowstone National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bison, which can pose a danger to visitors if proper precautions are not taken. Recent incidents, such as a bison attack that injured a visitor, highlight the importance of understanding wildlife safety. Here are some common questions and answers to help ensure a safe experience while enjoying the park's natural beauty.
More on these topics
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Yellowstone National Park is an American national park located in the western United States, largely in the northwest corner of Wyoming and extending into Montana, and Idaho. It was established by the U.S. Congress and signed into law by President Ulysses
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Florida is a state located in the southeastern region of the United States. With a population of over 21 million, Florida is the third-most populous and the 22nd-most extensive of the 50 United States.
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
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Wyoming is a doubly landlocked state in the western United States. The 10th largest state by area, it is also the least populous and second most sparsely populated state in the country.
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Cape Coral is a city located in Lee County, Florida, United States, on the Gulf of Mexico. Founded in 1957 and developed as a planned community, the city grew to a population of 154,305 by the year 2010.