Yellowstone Bison Danger
Yellowstone visitor describes bison attack aftermath: 'They move faster than you could imagine'.
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A 65-year-old man is recovering from multiple broken bones after a bison threw him into the air at Yellowstone National Park on July 10. Carl McDaniel was taking a walk with his grandson when the animal charged, according to WIBW.
McDaniel's grandson was not hurt. But the encounter left McDaniel with a stark warning for other visitors: "They move faster than you could ever imagine," he said.
A Grandfather's Walk Turns Dangerous in Seconds
McDaniel and his grandson were on a casual stroll inside the park when the bison struck. There was little time to react. Bison can run at 35 mph — faster than the men's world record in the 100-meter dash, according to KFYR-TV.
The bison tossed McDaniel into the air, leaving him with multiple bone fractures. His grandson, who was nearby, was not hit. McDaniel survived, but his recovery has been painful and slow.
Bison Are Yellowstone's Most Dangerous Animal
Bison are considered one of the most dangerous animals in Yellowstone National Park. They are large, fast, and unpredictable. At 35 mph, a charging bison gives humans almost no time to get out of the way, according to KPTV.
The park records about two bison attacks per year on average. That number held in 2025, with at least two people attacked. Despite their size, bison can close the distance between themselves and a person in just a few seconds.
Yellowstone Visitors Warned to Keep Their Distance
Park rules require visitors to stay at least 25 yards away from bison at all times. Many attacks happen when people get too close for photos or underestimate how quickly the animals move, according to KCRG.
McDaniel's experience is a reminder that these are wild animals — not the calm grazers they can appear to be from a distance. His warning is simple and direct: never assume a bison is slow or safe.
McDaniel Speaks Out to Warn Other Park Visitors
Despite his injuries, McDaniel has chosen to share his story publicly. He wants other visitors to understand the real danger bison pose. "They move faster than you could ever imagine," he said, according to WLOX.
His message is aimed especially at families and tourists who may see bison grazing calmly and think it is safe to approach. McDaniel's broken bones are a hard lesson — one he hopes others can learn without living through it.
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