DD ANIMAL NEWS: May 11th, 2025: For most people, a trip to Yellowstone is about soaking in the majesty of geysers, spotting wildlife from a safe distance, and collecting memories—not bruises. But for one Florida man, a seemingly innocent visit to America’s oldest national park turned into a painful lesson in what not to do around wild animals. On May 4, 2025, the man got far too close to one of Yellowstone’s most iconic residents—a massive, unpredictable bison—and found himself on the receiving end of nature’s raw power. It was the park’s first bison attack of the year, and it sent a strong reminder to tourists everywhere: these animals are not just photo ops—they’re wild, and they mean business.
A Close Encounter in Lake Village
Let’s get real! Bisons are not the cuddly furry cow most people think them to be, they are wild dangerous animals and should be respected by giving them space. Yet, one man like others in the past thought he could get up close and learnt the hard way why he shouldn’t have.
On May 4, 2025, a 47-year-old man from Cape Coral, Florida, (identity withheld) was gored by a bison in Yellowstone National Park’s Lake Village area. According to a report in the National Park Service, the incident occurred around 3:15 p.m. when the man approached the bison too closely, prompting the animal to charge. He sustained minor injuries and was treated by emergency medical personnel at the scene.
The First Bison Attack of 2025
This incident marks the first reported bison-related injury in Yellowstone for 2025. In 2024, there were two similar incidents: an 83-year-old woman from South Carolina was seriously injured after near Yellowstone Lake, and a man from Idaho was attacked after allegedly provoking a bison. These events underscore the importance of maintaining a safe distance from wildlife in the park.
Yellowstone’s Bison: Majestic but Dangerous
Bison are the largest land mammals in North America, weighing up to 2,000 pounds and capable of running at speeds up to 35 mph. Despite their seemingly docile appearance, they are unpredictable and have injured more people in Yellowstone than any other animal. Park regulations require visitors to stay at least 25 yards away from bison and other large animals, and 100 yards from predators like bears and wolves.
Recent studies have revealed that Yellowstone’s bison, once thought to comprise two separate herds, now function as a single interbreeding population. This finding has significant implications for conservation efforts and management strategies within the park. In response, Yellowstone National Park has implemented a new bison management plan, aiming to maintain the population between 3,500 and 6,000 animals after calving. The plan also emphasizes transferring bison to tribal lands and increasing tribal hunting opportunities.
The Importance of Wildlife Safety
The NPS (National Park Service) in its news release about the incident stated: “Bison will defend their space when threatened and have injured more people in Yellowstone than any other animal. They are unpredictable and can run three times faster than humans.” The report goes on to remind visitors “It is your responsibility to stay more than 25 yards (23 meters) away from all large animals – bison, elk, bighorn sheep, deer, moose, and coyotes – and at least 100 yards (91 meters) away from bears and wolves. If wildlife approach you, move away to always maintain these safe viewing distances.”
Approaching or attempting to interact with wildlife not only endangers the individual but can also have detrimental effects on the animals themselves. For instance, human interference can lead to the rejection of young animals by their herds, often resulting in fatal outcomes.
A Cautionary Tale
The recent incident involving the Florida man serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of close encounters with wildlife. As Yellowstone National Park continues to attract millions of visitors annually, adherence to safety guidelines is paramount to ensure the well-being of both humans and animals. By maintaining appropriate distances and respecting the natural behaviors of wildlife, visitors can contribute to the preservation of the park’s unique ecosystem.
Andrew Alpin from India is the Brand Manager of Doggo digest. Andrew is an experienced content specialist and social media manager with a passion for writing. His forte includes health and wellness, Travel, Animals, and Nature. A nature nomad, Andrew is obsessed with mountains and loves high-altitude trekking. He has been on several Himalayan treks in India including the Everest Base Camp in Nepal.
