SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS RADIO) – Officials at Yellowstone National Park shared sad news on Tuesday, as the park was forced to euthanize a newborn bison calf following its encounter with a park visitor and wildlife.
The incident occurred on Saturday evening when park officials say a man, who has not been identified, disturbed a bison calf after it was separated from its mother and herd, which were crossing the Lamar River, a news release said.
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“As the calf struggled, the man pushed the calf up from the river and onto the roadway,” NPS said in the news release.
Interactions with the animals at the park are not allowed, as park regulations require people to stay at least 25 yards from bison, elk, and most other wildlife at all times. For bears and wolves, park-goers are required to stay 100 yards away.
The NPS has such regulations in place because approaching wild animals can affect their well-being and survival.
“Interference by people can cause wildlife to reject their offspring,” NPS said.
After the man pulled the calf from the river, it began walking up to and following people and cars, the NPS said, adding that it was creating a hazard for those nearby.
Park rangers attempted to reunite the calf with its herd but failed to do so, resulting in the decision being made to euthanize the animal, being that it “was abandoned by its herd and was causing a hazardous situation to approaching cars and people along the roadway,” the press release shared.
Images of the man who lifted the bison calf from the river were shared by Yellowstone National Park to better help identify him. Anyone with information about the May 20 incident is asked to contact the park.
Possible charges brought against the man could include disturbing wildlife, disorderly conduct, and approaching wildlife, all of which are Class B Misdemeanors, Yellowstone National Park officials shared with CNN.
If found guilty of any wrongdoing, the man could face up to six months in jail and a $5,000 fine, the park shared with CNN.
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