A 65-year-old man named Carl Isom-McDaniel survived a bison attack at Yellowstone National Park on July 10, which left him with a broken hip. While walking with his grandson, he was charged by the bison and thrown eight feet into the air. Isom-McDaniel recounted that the impact of landing caused more pain than being launched by the animal, and he is currently recovering in a Montana hospital. The bison did not seem aggressive until it targeted him, and he was trying to protect his grandson during the incident, which was captured by a photographer nearby. This incident marks the second bison attack in Yellowstone within a few weeks, following an incident where a 12-year-old was injured.
Why It Matters
Bison are large, powerful animals found in Yellowstone, capable of weighing up to 2,000 pounds and running at speeds of 35 mph. Attacks on humans by bison, although rare, can lead to severe injuries. The mating season typically increases bison aggressiveness, prompting park officials to advise visitors to maintain a distance of at least 25 yards from these animals. Historical data shows that while gorings are serious, most victims tend to survive. The recent incidents highlight the inherent risks of interacting with wildlife in national parks, underscoring the need for visitor awareness and caution.
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