Five bison among 10 animals killed by Grand Teton drivers in 2 weeks, rangers say

At least 10 animals were killed in Grand Teton National Park by drivers in the past two weeks, rangers said.

Park rangers in Wyoming are asking tourists to slow down and be vigilant while driving within the park after a handful of animals were killed.

”Five bison, one elk, one mule deer, one pronghorn, one coyote and one wolf pup were hit and killed by vehicles traveling on park roads,” park rangers said Thursday in a news release.

It’s not uncommon to see bison take over a road in Yellowstone or Grand Teton national parks. There are nearly 1,000 bison living in Grand Teton.

Tourists, however, should slow down on park roads, rangers said. Many other animals migrate during the fall, which means they are more active near roads.

They can hide near the road and cross unexpectedly, according to park officials.

“Days become shorter as fall transitions to winter. Drivers should use caution and slow down, especially at dawn, dusk, and during the night when visibility is reduced,” park rangers said. “Visitors and local residents should obey posted speed limits and maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles.”

The speed limit in many parts of the park is 45 miles per hour to give drivers time to react to wildlife.

About 100 large animals are hit by drivers every year in Grand Teton, according to the National Park Service.

“You can save a life by slowing down, driving 45 at night and being alert on park roads,” rangers said.

Park rangers did not say if the animals were euthanized after they were hit or if the cars were damaged.

Bison can weigh up to 2,000 pounds and run up to 30 miles per hour, according to the National Park Service.

The park is home to thousands of animals, including grizzlies, black bears, bison moose, elk and pronghorn.

This story was originally published October 28, 2021 at 3:19 PM with the headline "Five bison among 10 animals killed by Grand Teton drivers in 2 weeks, rangers say."