In Yellowstone National Park, a 40-year-old man from Idaho was arrested after allegedly harassing a herd of bison and kicking one of them in the leg. Clarence Yoder of Idaho Falls is facing charges for approaching and disturbing wildlife, being under the influence of alcohol in a park area, and disorderly conduct.

Rangers received a report of the incident and promptly apprehended Yoder. During the encounter, Yoder suffered minor injuries and was taken to a nearby medical center for treatment. He was subsequently transported to the Gallatin County Detention Center.

Additionally, a 37-year-old woman, McKenna Bass, also from Idaho Falls, was arrested along with Yoder for driving under the influence, disturbing wildlife, and failing to yield to an emergency light activation.

Both Yoder and Bass have pleaded not guilty to the charges and were released on a $3,500 bond each. However, they are now banned from entering Yellowstone National Park while their cases are pending. Yoder is scheduled for a status hearing on May 23, while Bass's hearing is set for July 2.

Violations related to wildlife disturbance and other offenses in national parks carry a maximum penalty of $5,000 and up to six months in prison.

Instances of tourists harassing wildlife in national parks have been a recurrent issue, with social media often amplifying such incidents. According to the National Park Service, this year's incident marked the first reported bison attack on a visitor at Yellowstone National Park.

Jared Beaver, an assistant professor and wildlife management specialist at Montana State University, mentioned that wildlife harassment has already begun this year. Among all the wildlife in Yellowstone, bison are responsible for the highest number of injuries to visitors. Last year, the park reported its first bison attack in July, when a woman from Arizona was gored and had to be flown by helicopter to a medical center.

Beaver explained that bison can become aggressive when they perceive a threat in their personal space. Most bison attacks occur when visitors are within 10 to 15 feet of the animal, while the national park requires a minimum distance of 75 feet to be maintained.

To avoid such incidents, Beaver advised visitors to be mindful of their surroundings and to give the animals ample space. Bison display various signs of agitation, including snorting, head-tossing, and potentially faking a charge. It is important for visitors to be aware of these signs and to keep a safe distance from the animals.

The Yellowstone incident serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting wildlife and adhering to park regulations. While Yellowstone National Park provides a unique opportunity to witness magnificent wildlife, it is crucial for visitors to prioritize the safety of both themselves and the park's inhabitants.