McKenna Bass, 37, also of Idaho Falls, was arrested along with Yoder on charges of driving under the influence, disturbing wildlife and failing to activate emergency lights.
Yoder and Bass pleaded not guilty and were each released on $3,500 bail, according to court documents. They are banned from Yellowstone while the lawsuit is pending. Mr. Yoder’s status hearing is scheduled for May 23, and Mr. Bass’ hearing is scheduled for July 2.
Violations in national parks related to wildlife, plants, natural or cultural features are punishable by fines of up to $5,000 and up to six months in prison.
Harassment of wildlife by tourists has long been a problem in national parks, and the rise of social media has made incidents more visible. The National Park Service announced this is the first time this year that a bison has injured a visitor in Yellowstone.
Jared Beaver, an assistant professor and wildlife management expert at Montana State University, said the harassment of wildlife began earlier this year.
“Typically June and July is when we crank it in,” he said.
He said of all of Yellowstone’s wildlife, bison cause the most injuries to visitors. The park reported its first incident last year, when a bison bit an Arizona woman in July. She was taken by helicopter to a medical center.
The big-headed bison can weigh up to 2,000 pounds and can become aggressive if it feels threatened to its personal space, Beaver said. He said nearly all bison attacks occur when the victim was within 10 to 15 feet of the bison. National parks require visitors to stay at least 70 feet apart.
The bison is clearly showing signs of excitement. Beaver said they may snort, toss their heads or fake accusations. A flat tail is a relaxed bison. A tail extending along his back means he is alert. If the tail stands up straight and looks like a question mark, an attack may be imminent.
“Be aware of your surroundings, react to the animal’s movements, and give it plenty of space,” he said. “All it takes is one wrong move that might upset the animal.”
