General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: massive bull bison launches tourist into the air [View all]love_katz
(3,317 posts)This was a freak accident. The man and his grandson had just returned from hiking on the trail. They were about well beyond the minimum recomended distance that the Park advises for bison. The man and his grandson didn't know that rolling in the dust was a sign that the animal was agitated.
If you watch the video carefully, you see the bull go after the pickup truck first, then he charges across the road. The grandfather pushes his grandson out of the way, and follows by dodging around the tree. The bull rakes a small tree, then begins chasing the older man. It's terrifying to watch and my heart goes out to the man and his grandson.
The Facebook post that I read said that Park personnel stated that the unusually hot temperatures seems to have brought the bison mating season on early.
I'm guessing that this incident is another tragedy brought on by climate change. Perhaps the Park staff will reevaluate which campgrounds need to be temporarily closed due to the dangers of more accidents like this one. I know there will be criticism and anger, partly because people plan vacations in advance, and during the popular visiting times you have to make reservations. But, we humans tend to forget that part of the function of our National Parks is to help wild creatures survive and have a place to live. And, the Parks have to limit their liability and protect the safety of visitors as well.
I really hope the grandfather recovers, and I hope that his grandson receives comforting.