Baby Bison Put Down After Visitor's Attempt to Help

A bison calf with its motherPhoto byWikimedia

Yellowstone National Park officials confirmed today that a newborn bison was euthanized following an incident where a visitor intentionally touched the animal. The unfortunate event occurred in Wyoming, prompting an investigation by park authorities.

The visitor was trying to help the calf rejoin its herd after it got separated from its mother. But, despite his good intentions, the herd rejected the young bison.

Park rangers' attempts to reunite them were unsuccessful.

Because of concerns about public safety, the park made the difficult decision to put down the calf. It had started approaching cars and people on the roadway, posing a hazardous situation.

Yellowstone National Park stressed the importance of maintaining a safe distance from wildlife to ensure the well-being of both humans and animals.

The incident happened when an unidentified white male in his 40s to 50s encountered the separated calf as it tried to cross the Lamar River.

Witnesses reported that the man pushed the struggling calf out of the river and onto the roadway. Subsequently, the young animal was seen near vehicles and visitors.

Interference by humans can lead to a herd rejecting its offspring, and approaching wild animals can impact their well-being and survival chances.

Yellowstone National Park enforces a minimum distance requirement, mandating individuals to stay at least 25 yards away from all wildlife and 100 yards away from bears and wolves.

The park emphasizes the safety of both wildlife and visitors depends on everyone exercising good judgment and following these straightforward rules.

In response to this incident, Yellowstone National Park law enforcement is seeking public assistance in identifying the visitor involved. Authorities aim to gather more information about the incident and further evaluate the circumstances surrounding the bison's euthanasia.

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