Man Who Was Injured By a Bison at Yellowstone National Park After Allegedly Kicking it While Drunk Faces Criminal Charges

A man faces charges for allegedly kicking a bison while intoxicated in Yellowstone National Park. (Photo: Ric Tapia via AP)

The National Park Service issued a statement on Monday that a man who purportedly kicked a bison at Yellowstone and subsequently suffered minor injured by the animal faces alcohol-related charges.

According to a statement, Clarence Yoder of Idaho Falls allegedly kicked the bison in the leg while at the park’s West Entrance Road on April 21. The statement reported that park rangers arrived after hearing reports about an individual harassing a herd of bison.

The rangers arrested Yoder and pressed four charges against him: Being under the influence of alcohol and endangering himself, disorderly conduct, approaching wildlife and disturbing wildlife. According to NBC News, Yoder pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Yoder was in the car with McKenna Bass, who was arrested for driving under the influence, failing to activate her emergency lights and disturbing wildlife. Bass also maintains her innocence.

It appears Yoder was lucky to sustain such mild injuries after being attacked by the animal. In July, The Guardian reported that a woman was gored by a bison after getting too close to the animal. She sustained major injuries to her chest and abdomen according to the outlet and had to be airlifted to a local hospital.

From 1978 to 1992, The Guardian reported that bison have injured 56 people at Yellowstone National Park and two people have died.

The National Park Service claims that bison are the largest land mammals in North America. The animal’s temperament is described as “unpredictable.” At times, bison can appear relaxed, gentle and “slow and lumbering.” Yet, these animals are surprisingly nimble and can outrun humans.

Bison are additionally known to attack without warning. The National Park Service recommends staying a minimum of 25 yards away from these animals, as approaching them can signal aggression, and they will defend themselves.

If an individual gets too close, bison can respond with aggressive behavior and will bluff charge, snort, bellow and put their tail up as a warning sign to back off.

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