Sourced by Alexander Turcan
3. Bison
If you encounter a bison, here are some tips from Canada’s National Park Service:
- If you encounter bison along the roadway, drive slowly and they will eventually move. Do not honk, become impatient, or proceed too quickly. Bison attacks on vehicles are rare, but can happen. Bison may spook if you get out of your vehicle. Therefore, remain inside or stay very close.
- If you are on foot or horseback: Never startle bison. Always let them know you are there. Never try to chase or scare bison away. It is best to just cautiously walk away. Always try to stay a minimum of 100 meters (approximately the size of a football field) from the bison.
- Please take extra caution as bison may be more aggressive:
- During the rutting season (mid July-mid August) as bulls can become more aggressive.
- After bison cows have calved. Moms may be a little over-protective during this time.
- When cycling near bison, as cyclists often startle unknowing herds.
- When hiking with pets. Dogs may provoke a bison attack and should be kept on a leash.
- On hot spring days – when bison have heavy winter coats.
- Use extreme caution if they display any of the following signs
- Shaking the head.
- Pawing.
- Short charges or running toward you.
- Loud snorting.
- Raising the tail.