Arizona Woman Gored by Bison at Yellowstone National Park
An Arizona woman visiting Yellowstone National Park was gored by a bison as she was walking away from the animal, park officials said Monday. The incident, which occurred on Monday morning, is believed to be the first such incident this year.
The 47-year-old woman from Phoenix, whose name has not been released by the National Park Service, and the person she was with were walking in a field in front of the Lake Lodge Cabins on the north shore of Lake Yellowstone when they encountered two bison. Despite turning to walk away from the animals, one of the bison charged at the woman and gored her.
“The woman sustained significant injuries to her chest and abdomen,” the Park Service said in a statement.
The visitor was airlifted to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center, and her condition is currently unknown. The incident is under investigation, and the Park Service has not released any additional information.
It is unclear how close the woman was to the bison before the attack. Yellowstone National Park requires visitors to stay more than 25 yards away from bison.
“Wildlife in Yellowstone National Park are wild and can be dangerous when approached,” park officials warned.
This is the first incident of its kind at Yellowstone in 2023, following several similar events that made headlines last year. In May 2022, an Ohio woman was gored by a bison and thrown 10 feet into the air after getting too close to the animal. A month later, a Colorado man was gored by a bison at Old Faithful, and the following day, a Pennsylvania woman was gored near Storm Point at Yellowstone Lake.
Bison, the largest mammals in North America, have injured more people at Yellowstone than any other animal. They are unpredictable and can run up to 40 mph, three times faster than humans. Yellowstone is the only place in the United States where bison have continuously lived since the prehistoric age.
Yellowstone officials have emphasized the importance of giving animals space and staying at least 25 yards away from large animals such as bison, elk, and moose. During the mating season, which runs from mid-July to mid-August, bison can become more agitated, and visitors are advised to exercise extra caution and give them additional space.
The incident serves as a reminder of the need to respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance when visiting national parks.
What are the potential dangers of encounters with wildlife in national parks, as highlighted by the Arizona woman’s injuries in Yellowstone?
Njuries including multiple goring wounds,” the park officials said in a statement. Rangers quickly responded to the scene and provided immediate medical assistance to the woman. She was then transported by helicopter to a hospital for further treatment.
Bison are one of the largest mammals in North America and can weigh up to 2,000 pounds. They are known for their aggression and can become territorial, especially during their mating season. Park officials always advise visitors to stay at least 25 yards away from bison and other wildlife.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of following park guidelines and maintaining a safe distance from wildlife. Yellowstone National Park is home to a variety of wild animals, and it is crucial to respect their space and behavior. Park officials are conducting an investigation into the incident and are urging visitors to exercise caution while enjoying the park.
The Arizona woman’s injuries highlight the potential dangers of encounters with wildlife in national parks. While Yellowstone is a breathtaking destination, visitors must remember that they are entering the natural habitat of these animals and must act responsibly. It is crucial to stay alert, keep a safe distance, and never approach or provoke wild animals.
Visitors to Yellowstone National Park should consult park rangers and informational materials for guidelines on interacting with wildlife. By following these guidelines, visitors can help ensure their own safety and the preservation of the park’s diverse ecosystem.
