New Instagram Filter for Wildlife Safety in Jackson Hole

In a bid to enhance visitor safety and protect local wildlife, Visit Jackson Hole has introduced a new Instagram filter called "Selfie Control." This innovative tool aims to educate tourists on maintaining a safe distance from animals, particularly large species like bison, which can pose risks if approached too closely. Users can access the filter on Instagram, selecting from various wildlife icons to gauge their proximity to real animals. If the live animal appears larger than the filter icon, it serves as a warning that the user is too close. The initiative comes amid rising visitor numbers and increasing incidents of dangerous encounters between tourists and wildlife. Valentino, a representative from Visit Jackson Hole, noted that many visitors lack awareness about the nature of wild animals and the importance of keeping a safe distance. A viral incident in May 2023, where a woman was filmed dangerously close to a bison, highlighted the urgent need for such educational measures. The National Park Service enforces strict penalties for wildlife harassment, with fines reaching up to $5,000 and potential jail time. Erik Dombroski, chair of the Jackson Hole Travel & Tourism Board, emphasized the difficulty in accurately judging distances in expansive park landscapes, making the filter a valuable tool for both amateur and professional photographers. As wildlife populations face threats globally, similar campaigns have emerged elsewhere, such as in Australia, where conservationists urged visitors to respect endangered species. Visit Jackson Hole hopes that the "Selfie Control" filter will significantly reduce negative interactions between tourists and wildlife, fostering a safer environment for both.