Florida man injured after getting too close to bison in Yellowstone

In Yellowstone National Park, a 47-year-old man from Cape Coral, Florida, was injured after he approached a bison too closely. This incident occurred at Lake Village, an area popular with visitors, just weeks into the summer tourist season, highlighting the risks associated with wildlife encounters in national parks. According to the National Park Service, this event marks the first reported bison-related injuries of 2025, indicating a concerning trend during a time when park visitation typically peaks. The NPS reminds visitors to maintain a safe distance from wildlife to avoid dangerous encounters. Bison are known for their size and strength, posing significant risks to those who disregard safety guidelines. With speeds of up to 35 mph, they can be surprisingly swift and unpredictable, leading to serious injuries. Prior to this incident, two bison-related goring incidents occurred in 2024, including one involving an 83-year-old woman who sustained serious injuries. The warning from park officials remains clear: keep a 25-yard distance from bison and 100 yards from predators like wolves and bears. Yet, many visitors fail to heed this advice, sometimes putting themselves and the animals in jeopardy. Park authorities emphasize that most injuries could be avoided if visitors respected wildlife boundaries. Many people tend to underestimate the danger posed by bison, often approaching them for photos or attempting to take selfies, sometimes at dangerously close distances. The park is filled with warnings, but the allure of capturing that perfect photo can sadly overrule common sense. In an ecosystem where bison play a crucial role, understanding their behavior is essential for safety. Bison have lived in North America for thousands of years, helping shape the ecological communities across the continent. The NPS is working to educate visitors on the ecological significance of bison and how to observe them safely, urging respect for wildlife and adherence to national park regulations.