An Idaho man was arrested after allegedly kicking a bison in Yellowstone National Park while intoxicated.
Clarence Yoder, 40, ended up injuring himself in the encounter near the West Entrance on April 21st.
“Rangers responded to the area after receiving a report of an individual who harassed a herd of bison and kicked a bison in the leg,” the NPS stated. “They located the suspect’s vehicle near the West Entrance and stopped it in the town of West Yellowstone, Montana.”
“Yoder was arrested and charged with 1) being under the influence of alcohol to a degree that may endanger oneself, 2) disorderly conduct as to create or maintain a hazardous condition, 3) approaching wildlife, and 4) disturbing wildlife,” park officials added.
They located Yoder’s vehicle outside the park and arrested him, charging him with public intoxication, disorderly conduct, approaching and disturbing wildlife.
“The last reported incident occurred on July 17, 2023,” park officials said. “There was one reported incident in 2023 and three in 2022.”
He was treated for minor injuries from the bison at a medical facility before being jailed.
The driver of his vehicle, McKenna Bass, 37, was also arrested and charged with DUI and interfering with an emergency response for failing to yield.
“When an animal is near a campsite, trail, boardwalk, parking lot or in a developed area, give it space. Stay more than 25 yards away from all large animals – bison, elk, bighorn sheep, deer, moose, and coyotes – and at least 100 yards away from bears and wolves,” officials said. “If need be, turn around and go the other way to avoid interacting with a wild animal in close proximity.”
Both pleaded not guilty but face fines and jail time if convicted.
Park officials advise giving all wildlife at least 25 yards of space and 100 yards for bears and wolves, or turning around to avoid interaction.
