Video shows bison chasing child at Yellowstone boardwalk

A video circulating online has captured a harrowing moment at Yellowstone National Park, showing a bison chasing a child along a boardwalk. The incident occurred on July 28, as a tourist filmed the event, which quickly went viral. The footage, shared via the news agency Storyful, depicts a woman walking safely alongside a bison near the boardwalk before a group of children enters the scene. One child begins running, prompting the bison to give chase. The child reaches safety, and no injuries are reported. The incident marks another alarming encounter between visitors and bison in Yellowstone this summer. Park officials have noted that bison are responsible for more injuries to visitors than any other animal in the park. Safety guidelines issued by the National Park Service emphasize maintaining a distance of at least 25 yards, approximately the length of two school buses, from bison. Visitors are advised to walk or run away if approached or charged, and to use bear spray and find shelter behind trees or vehicles if pursued. This recent event follows a similar incident earlier in the month involving a 65-year-old man, Carl McDaniel, who was thrown into the air by a bison at the park's Bridge Bay Campground. Mr. McDaniel suffered a fractured femur in four places and required surgery. He described the bison as not aggressive or hostile at first, though it became agitated after a passing vehicle honked its horn. Despite being more than 100 yards away, the bison's sudden charge left him severely injured. Yellowstone's bison rut, the breeding season that spans late July through August, is believed to have contributed to the heightened aggression observed in both incidents. During this time, male bison engage in displays of dominance, including loud vocalizations and physical confrontations. Wildlife experts caution that bison can exhibit aggressive behavior throughout the year, especially if they perceive a threat. This behavior may manifest even when the animals seem calm. Bull bison, which can weigh up to 2,000 pounds, are capable of reaching speeds of around 35 miles per hour, roughly three times the speed of a human. These statistics underscore the danger posed by these large creatures, particularly when they feel threatened or startled. Park officials stress that approaching bison or staying within the recommended buffer zone can lead to defensive actions, even from seemingly docile animals. The repeated encounters highlight the ongoing challenge of managing interactions between wildlife and visitors in Yellowstone. While the park provides clear safety instructions, incidents continue to occur, underscoring the need for vigilance among tourists. As the bison rut continues, authorities are likely to reinforce educational efforts aimed at preventing such dangerous situations. Visitors are urged to heed warnings and maintain a safe distance from these powerful animals.