We get it…seeing wildlife up close is exciting. Tourists prove that at Yellowstone every year. However, no matter how safe you feel in your vehicle, your car isn’t a magic shield. Bison can and will dent your door (or your face), elk don’t care about your rental agreement, and bears definitely aren’t posing for your Instagram. The best (and safest) way to experience wildlife is to keep your distance, stay in your vehicle (and not hanging out of it), and resist the urge to inch closer and pet them–even if they approach you. Remember: wild animals are, well… wild. Let them do their thing, and everyone–your car (and maybe even your face) included…stays a whole lot happier.
Here’s an example from a few years ago of why you just should admire wildlife from afar–even in New York:
