PIERRE, S.D. (KELO.com) — It’s not every day we hear of a bison attack in South Dakota, but officials say it did happen recently.
A visitor to Custer State Park was recently taken to the hospital.
Game, Fish & Park Officials say a woman was hiking near the Wildlife Loop Road with her dog when they surprised a small herd of bull bison.
One of the bison charged at the dog and hit the woman instead.
Officials say incidents like this are not common, but they do happen.
It’s a good reminder to stay at least 100 yards away and be extra aware when approaching blind corners.
—-Read the entire news release below —-
PIERRE, S.D. – A recent incident between a park visitor and a bison reminds us all to use caution in the park.
While hiking near the Wildlife Loop Road a female visitor, her companion, and dog came over a hill and surprised a small herd of bull bison. It appears one of the bulls charged the dog and hit the female visitor. She was taken to a local hospital.
“It is always important to remember that bison, and all the animals in the park, are unpredictable,” said Lydia Austin, Custer State Park’s Visitor Services Manager. “When possible, stay at least 100 yards away from bison and always be extra aware when approaching blind corners.”
While incidents between bison and visitors are not common in the park, they do happen. Custer State Park is home to one of the largest publicly owned bison herds in the world and hosts millions of visitors every year.
“We hope this serves as a good reminder to always be aware of your surroundings, and give animals their space when possible,” Austin said.
Contact: Lydia Austin, Visitor Services Program Manager (605)255-4515
