Yellowstone Visitors Continue to Ignore Signs and Approach Wildlife
Andrea Powell
Over 4 million people visit Yellowstone National Park each year to take in the beautiful scenery and wildlife.
However, some tourists cannot follow the rules and end up endangering themselves and others.
There are signs posted throughout the park - not for decoration but as warnings - to "not approach wildlife" and to keep a safe distance of at least 25 feet from wildlife.
Park officials state, "The animals in Yellowstone are wild and unpredictable, no matter how docile they may appear to be. The safest (and often best) view of wildlife is from inside a car. Always stay at least 100 yards (91 m) away from bears, wolves, and cougars, and at least 25 yards (23 m) away from all other animals, including bison and elk. If an animal moves closer to you, back away to maintain a safe distance. It's illegal to willfully remain near or approach wildlife, including birds, within any distance that disturbs or displaces the animal."
There are so many incidents of people getting too close to wildlife that a local dubbed them Tourons (tourist plus moron) and created social media accounts called "TouronsOfYellowstone" displaying the videos as "what not to do".
Sadly, there are hundreds of videos and they keep on coming. People have been seriously injured by getting too close to wildlife, especially bison.
Check out a recent encounter with a bison and some "lucky" tourons.
Remember that you are a visitor and follow the rules. It is a privilege to see these magnificent animals in their natural habitat and explore geothermal areas. Bring binoculars if you would like a closer view of the animals.
Yellowstone also shared participation ribbons for all ages of visitors, especially adults, on their Facebook page. The goal is to earn all of the virtual ribbons for doing things like not feeding wildlife- "not even the really cute ones."
Everyone (who follows the rules) should visit the world's first national park and enjoy all the awe-inspiring sights. The park provides safety tips for driving, thermal areas, and observing wildlife on their website. Learn more here.
