Too Close for Comfort: NJ Man Gored by Bison at Yellowstone

Govind Tekale

A morning at Yellowstone turned bloody when a bison gored a 30-year-old New Jersey man who got too close to the wild animal.

Photo Source: Brett Sayles

Park officials reported the man suffered minor injuries after he and a "large group of visitors" ignored the 25-yard safety rule on June 10, 2025

Photo Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture (CC BY 4.0)

This wasn't a freak accident - it's the second bison goring in Yellowstone this year, following similar incidents in 2024 and 2023.

Photo Source: James St. John (CC BY 4.0)

What happens when a one-ton animal feels threatened? Bison can sprint at 35 mph—faster than Usain Bolt—and their horns aren't for show.

Photo Source: Dip Kheto

Warning signs are clear: head bobbing, pawing, snorting, or bellowing mean you're already in the danger zone.

Photo Source: Picryl.com  (PDM 1.0)

Why do tourists keep making this deadly mistake? The perfect social media photo isn't worth a hospital visit—or worse.

Photo Source: PxHere

Acid sprays from these nests help Eurasian jays eliminate parasites like mites and lice from their feathers.

Photo Source: rawpixel.com (CC0 1.0)

During the summer mating season (mid-July to mid-August), male bison become especially aggressive and unpredictable

Photo Source: rawpixel.com / Carol M Highsmith ( CC0 1.0)

What should you do if you witness a bison attack? Call 911 immediately and keep others back—a second charge could happen.

Photo Source: PixaHive

Did you know these massive creatures are survivors? Today's Yellowstone bison descended from just 23 wild animals that escaped mass hunting in the 1800s.

Photo Source: Kathy Büscher ( CC BY-SA 3.0)

How can you enjoy wildlife safely? Bring binoculars, use zoom lenses, and carry bear spray (which works on charging bison too).

Photo Source: JMrocek on DeviantArt (CC BY-NC-ND 3.0)

"The safety of these animals – and humans – depends on everyone using good judgment and following these simple rules," park officials emphasized.

Photo Source: Pickpik