A 12-year-old was hospitalized on Friday after being injured by a bison in Yellowstone National Park. The incident occurred around 9:15 a.m. near the Mud Volcano area.
The child was visiting the park when the encounter took place, and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The severity of the injuries has not been disclosed.
This is the first reported bison attack in Yellowstone in 2026. In 2025, two people were gored in separate incidents in May and June. In 2024, two other visitor-bison incidents were reported: one in April where a man was injured after harassing a herd, and another in June. Yellowstone reported one bison-related injury in 2023.
Yellowstone National Park advises visitors to maintain a distance of at least 25 yards from bison, as these animals can become aggressive when approached. The park service states that bison can run three times faster than humans and will defend their space if they feel threatened.
Visitors are reminded to back away if an animal approaches them to maintain a safe distance. All conflicts with park wildlife must be reported to Yellowstone authorities. The incident is currently under investigation.