The American Bison projects an image of slow-moving serenity that can be dangerously misleading. Despite their seemingly docile appearance, bison are unpredictable wild animals that act with surprising speed and aggression. These massive herbivores are responsible for more injuries to park visitors annually than bears and wolves combined, particularly in areas like Yellowstone National Park. Understanding the potential for danger is the first step toward safety, providing clear, actionable steps for avoiding and surviving a dangerous encounter.
Maintaining Safe Distance
The single most effective strategy for surviving a bison encounter is maintaining a proper physical buffer. The National Park Service mandates that visitors stay at least 25 yards (75 feet) away from all bison at all times. This minimum distance is non-negotiable because their immense size allows them to accelerate rapidly from a standstill. A large animal can easily cover 75 feet in just a few seconds, making sudden retreat impossible once the distance is compromised.
Situational awareness is paramount, requiring hikers to scan their environment constantly, especially when moving around blind corners or through dense cover. Remaining strictly on marked trails prevents inadvertently surprising a bison that may be resting or grazing just out of sight. This distance rule applies even when the bison is near a roadway or appears calm. Never attempt to approach bison for photographs, and if a bison is closer than 25 yards, slowly and deliberately increase the distance.
Recognizing Signs of Agitation
When the minimum distance has been unintentionally compromised, the next defense is recognizing the bison’s body language that signals rising agitation. A calm bison typically grazes with its tail hanging down, unconcerned with its surroundings. The first sign of elevated stress is often a change in the tail’s position, specifically when the tail is raised stiffly into the air like a flag.
Immediate concern is warranted if the animal begins to shake its head, lower it, or paw at the ground with its hooves. These actions are clear warnings that the bison feels threatened and is preparing to defend itself. Audible warnings, such as snorting or a deep, guttural bellow, also indicate that the animal may charge imminently.
Should you observe any of these warning signs, a slow, non-confrontational retreat must begin immediately. Move sideways or diagonally rather than turning your back, which allows you to keep the bison in view while gradually increasing separation. Never attempt to haze the animal, make loud noises, or position yourself between a mother and her calf.
What to Do During a Full Charge
If a bison decides to charge, the time for de-escalation has passed, and immediate action is required for survival. Running is counterproductive, as these animals can reach speeds between 35 and 40 miles per hour, easily outstripping a sprinter. The goal shifts from escaping the animal to finding immediate physical protection.
Seeking Immediate Cover
If a sturdy, solid barrier is nearby, such as a large tree trunk or the interior of a vehicle, place that object directly between yourself and the charging animal. The bison’s immense momentum and poor turning radius can be used to your advantage, as they may be unable to quickly adjust their path to circumvent the obstacle. This immediate cover provides the best chance to avoid the impact.
Last Resort Defense
When no cover is available, the last-resort tactic is to drop to the ground and curl into a tight fetal position. Protect the head, neck, and vital organs with your arms and hands. While this does not stop the attack, it minimizes the surface area presented to the bison and offers protection from hooves and horns. The bison may cease the attack sooner once the perceived threat is neutralized.
After the Attack
If you sustain an injury, remain motionless until the bison has completely left the area and is out of sight. Once the immediate danger has passed, seek medical attention without delay. A bison’s impact can cause severe internal injuries that are not immediately apparent. Even a small goring wound or blunt force trauma can have life-threatening consequences.