A bison gored a 72-year-old woman multiple times in Yellowstone National Park after she got too close to it.

According to a news release from the National Park Service, the incident occurred in the evening on June 25 at the Bridge Bay Campground, when the woman continually went within 10 feet of the bison to take its picture.

The animal then charged, leaving the woman with multiple goring wounds. Rangers provided on-site care before transporting her to a nearby hospital via helicopter.

"The series of events that led to the goring suggest the bison was threatened by being repeatedly approached to within 10 feet," said Yellowstone's Senior Bison Biologist Chris Geremia in the release. "Bison are wild animals that respond to threats by displaying aggressive behaviors like pawing the ground, snorting, bobbing their head, bellowing, and raising their tail. If that doesn't make the threat...move away, a threatened bison may charge."

Geremia recommends staying at least 25 yards away from bison. If charged, run away or find cover.

Aside from bison, the release said that the 25-yard-rule also applies to elk, bighorn sheep, deer, moose and coyotes. For bears and wolves, stay at least 100 yards away.

To learn more about animal safety in Yellowstone National Park, click here. 

Enter your number to get our free mobile app

The Most Dangerous Animals in Colorado + Why They're Dangerous

 

More From K99