The American Bison, the largest land mammal in North America, often presents a misleading image of docility while grazing. Their sheer size and seemingly slow movements lead many people to mistake their indifference for friendliness. This assumption is incorrect; bison are unpredictable wild animals that can be highly dangerous, causing more injuries to visitors in national parks than any other animal. Maintaining a respectful distance is the foundational rule for safety around these powerful herbivores.
The True Nature of Bison
Bison possess an inherently defensive temperament, reacting quickly and aggressively to anything they perceive as a threat to themselves, their young, or the herd. This behavior is motivated by a profound instinct for survival, making them volatile when humans encroach upon their space. The sudden shift from calm grazing to an aggressive stance can happen instantly, leaving little time to react.
The animal provides several clear warning signs of agitation that should be immediately respected. A bison that raises its tail straight up like a flag is signaling high alarm and may be preparing to charge. Other distinct pre-attack behaviors include snorting, pawing at the ground, or lowering and swinging the head side-to-side. These signals indicate the animal is stressed and perceives a person’s proximity as a severe threat.
Physical Capabilities and Misleading Appearances
The massive bulk of the bison often hides its surprising speed and athleticism, leading to the misconception that a person can easily outrun one. A mature male bull can weigh up to 2,000 pounds and stand six feet tall at the hump. Despite this substantial size, these animals are not slow.
Bison are capable of running up to 35 miles per hour, significantly faster than the average human sprint speed. They are also incredibly agile, able to pivot quickly and jump over obstacles. This combination of immense weight, sharp horns, and unexpected velocity makes a close encounter with a defensive bison exceptionally hazardous.
Essential Safety Distances and Protocols
The single most important rule when encountering a bison is to maintain an absolute minimum safe distance, as mandated by national park guidelines. This distance is generally set at 25 yards (about 75 feet) from the animal. If a bison begins to react to your presence, even by pausing its grazing, it indicates you are too close and need to slowly increase your separation.
People should never attempt to feed, pet, or approach a bison for a photograph, which is a common cause of serious injury. If a bison approaches you, the correct protocol is to slowly and calmly retreat, establishing a solid barrier like a car or a large tree between yourself and the animal. Avoid turning your back and running, as this action can trigger the bison’s natural chase instinct.
Always use a zoom lens or binoculars to observe wildlife, and never pursue an animal. By adhering to the 25-yard rule and respecting the bison’s space, you ensure both your safety and the animal’s well-being, allowing it to remain undisturbed in its natural habitat. The goal is to observe the bison without causing it to change its behavior.