Bison Encounters in Yellowstone: A Growing Concern

Jesse Watters highlights a significant issue in Yellowstone National Park: bison attacks. Recent incidents show the danger these large animals pose, with a grandfather being flung 8 feet into the air, and a woman being dragged. Watters emphasizes understanding the speed and power of these creatures.

Bison Charges Vehicle

An early-morning drive turned hazardous in Yellowstone when a bison charged a pickup truck. A video shared on Facebook depicts the animal standing on a dark roadway before charging toward the vehicle, colliding with its front. The incident occurred near Mud Volcano at about 2:45 a.m., as reported by the Cowboy State Daily.

Kyle Weber, a seasonal mechanic in Yellowstone, drove south from Canyon Village, encountering the bison on the road. Instead of trying to go past it, he stopped his Ford Ranger, hoping the bison would move away.

Yet, the bison unexpectedly charged the pickup, impacting its front-left side. Weber shared with Cowboy State Daily, “I slammed on my brakes and stopped, and was just sitting there watching and waiting for him to continue walking.” The impact moved the truck backward by about a foot and a half, denting the bumper and hood and breaking a side marker light.

Repair Plans and Reflection

Weber plans to replace the damaged parts, using this as an opportunity to upgrade the truck. However, he intends to keep the dented hood as a reminder of the encounter. “I think I’ll keep it,” Weber noted, appreciating the story it tells.

In another alarming event, a bison attacked Carl Isom-McDaniel and his grandson at Bridge Bay Campground. Recalling the incident from his hospital room, Isom-McDaniel said, “They move faster than you could ever imagine.” He suffered serious injuries, including a femur broken in four places, necessitating surgery.

These incidents highlight the necessity of being cautious around bison in the park. Visitors should remain vigilant and maintain a safe distance from these powerful animals.