On October 30, a tourist was attacked by a bison in Teremiska, Białowieża Forest, and taken to hospital, prompting Białowieża National Park to urge visitors to keep distance.
Incident Details
According to Białowieża National Park officials, a group of tourists approached very close to a bison in Teremiska on October 30. One visitor attempted to take a picture, was struck by the bull, and was hospitalized.
Bison Behaviour
Park representatives explain that a bison’s behaviour largely depends on human interaction. The less contact with people, the shyer the animal; frequent encounters reduce fear and may lead to aggression.
Experts note that adult males living within the reserve can be more aggressive than those outside, with the largest and strongest feeling themselves as rulers of the forest and treating humans with casual indifference.
Park’s Recommendations
Visitors are advised to maintain a minimum distance of 50 metres from any bison. The animal is strong, fast, and can react aggressively if approached too closely.
Feeding Warnings
The park cautions against offering food to bison near homes. Leaving hay or other ruminant or predator food in the vicinity hampers the animals but poses a danger to residents and tourists alike.
Park staff are documenting areas where animals are being fed to monitor the practice.
