For the second time in just a
few days, a person was attacked by a bison at
Yellowstone National Park. The 71-year-old woman
involved was brutally gored while returning to
her vehicle earlier this month, approaching a bison in
the process.
As more and more people seek
outdoor activities amidst the COVID-19 pandemic,
national parks are again experiencing massive summer
crowds. This is not inherently a bad thing -- until
people who are visiting
continue to approach wildlife, putting themselves and
animals at risk. The reasons for
approaching these wild animals like elk, coyotes, and
bison vary -- some people feel a false send of security
within the boarders of the parks, and are simply not
careful. Others want to approach the animals to pet,
feed, or photograph them, treating them like tame pets
or petting zoo animals. This foolishness often results
in human injury -- or tragically, it teaches animals to
feel comfortable approaching people, putting
these innocent creatures at risk of extermination by
officials who cannot risk a wild animal being too
interested in humans.
Clearly, there need to be
awareness campaigns at our national parks to educate
visitors on appropriate etiquette around wildlife, as
well as increased enforcement of proper practices, and
reminders throughout the parks! More funding would solve
many of these problems. We must put pressure on
Congress to better fund our national parks to keep both
people and animals safe. Sign the petition now if you
agree!
