Article Summary –
Two individuals from Idaho Falls were arrested at Yellowstone National Park for allegedly harassing wildlife, among other charges; one of them was reported to have kicked a bison in the leg. Clarence Yoder and Mckenna Bass pleaded not guilty and were released on a $3,500 bond, banned from Yellowstone during their pending cases. Violations at national parks involving wildlife can result in a penalty of $5,000 and up to six months imprisonment, and tourists harassing wildlife is a known issue at national parks.
Idaho Man Arrested for Harassing Bison at Yellowstone National Park
Clarence Yoder, a 40-year-old man from Idaho, was arrested in Yellowstone National Park after reports indicated he harassed a herd of bison, kicking one in the leg. Yoder is facing charges in federal court for allegedly disturbing wildlife, being under the influence of alcohol, and disorderly conduct. After sustaining minor injuries, he was taken to a nearby medical center before being transported to Gallatin County Detention Center.
Additional Arrest for Disturbing Wildlife
Mckenna Bass, 37, also from Idaho Falls, was arrested alongside Yoder for alleged DUI, disturbing wildlife, and failing to yield to an emergency light. Both Yoder and Bass pleaded not guilty, were released on a $3,500 bond, and are prohibited from Yellowstone pending their cases. Yoder’s status hearing is scheduled for May 23, while Bass’s is on July 2.
Penalties for National Park Violations
Violations regarding wildlife, plants, and features in national parks carry a maximum penalty of $5,000 and up to six months imprisonment. Wildlife harassment remains an issue at national parks, as social media increases its visibility. The National Park Service reported this as Yellowstone’s first bison-caused visitor injury this year.
Increase in Wildlife Harassment
Yellowstone’s wildlife, particularly bison, are often involved in visitor injuries, according to Jared Beaver, a wildlife management specialist from Montana State University. He notes that bison, which can weigh up to 2,000 pounds, may become aggressive if they feel threatened. The park requires visitors to maintain at least 75 feet distance.
Reading Bison Behavior
Bison show clear signs of agitation, including snorting, tossing their heads, and feigned charges. They may attack when a tail resembling a question mark stands straight up, signaling an alert. Beaver emphasizes the importance of respecting an animal’s personal space, as one wrong movement could upset the animal.
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