Hormones are running high in Yellowstone National Park as bison enter their mating season, known as the rut. Males are particularly prone to aggression as they compete for dominance, so it's more important than ever to make sure you give them plenty of space, whether you're traveling by foot or car. A video compilation posted last week via Instagram account (which you can see below) shows exactly what can happen to even careful drivers during this time of year if they encounter a particularly highly-strung male.
The National Park Service (NPS) warns that "The safest (and often best) view of wildlife is from inside a car," and this collection of clips shows exactly why. Bison are powerful animals, and their sharp horns can easily tear through a vehicle's bumper if they take exception to your presence. Last year, a couple went viral after they posted a video of their close encounter with a bison that and pierced the front right tire.
The Instagram account on which it was shared usually documents bad behavior like people or , but this incident was just bad luck. Summer is one of the best times of year to see bison, as the males engage in bellowing, wallowing and fighting. It can also be particularly dangerous, but with the right precautions you can enjoy the spectacular sights safely.
always staying at least 25 yards (23 meters) away from large herbivores like bison and elk, and 100 yards (91 meters) from wolves and bears. "Approaching bison threatens them, and they may respond .
