A visitor to Yellowstone National Park has been seriously injured after being tossed several metres into the air by a charging bull bison, highlighting the dangers of getting too close to wildlife in one of the world’s most famous national parks.
Screenshot from Breaking911 (@Breaking911) on X
According to Cowboy State Daily, the incident happened on Friday evening near Bridge Bay Campground, where a man was reportedly observing the animal with a family member when the encounter took a sudden turn. According to eyewitnesses, the bull bison appeared increasingly agitated before charging and launching the man about eight feet (roughly 2.4 metres) into the air.
A tourist was seriously injured after a bison tossed them about 8 feet into the air in Yellowstone National Park. The attack was captured on video by photographer Mike Macleod. pic.twitter.com/ZtGTb32Gee
— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) July 12, 2026
Professional wildlife photographer Mike Macleod, who witnessed and filmed the incident, said the bison had been displaying aggressive behaviour beforehand and was charging at anything in its path. He and several bystanders reportedly shouted and intervened to distract the animal, preventing it from returning to the injured man.
Emergency responders arrived shortly afterwards, and the victim was transported to hospital with serious injuries. While he was conscious after the attack, officials have not released further details about his condition.
Why bison attacks happen
Although bison often appear calm, they are among Yellowstone’s most unpredictable wild animals. Adult bulls can weigh close to a tonne and are capable of sprinting at speeds far faster than most people can run.
The attack serves as another reminder that wildlife should always be viewed from a safe distance. Yellowstone National Park advises visitors to remain at least 25 yards (23 metres) away from bison and other large herbivores, and even further from predators such as bears and wolves. Approaching wildlife for photographs or lingering in an animal’s path can quickly lead to dangerous situations.
Yellowstone attracts millions of visitors each year, offering exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. However, encounters like this underscore the importance of respecting wild animals and giving them the space they need.
(Source: Cowboy State Daily)
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