Don’t Pet the Fluffy Cow: Bison Etiquette 101

Listen, we totally get it; you made the trip to Montana for the fresh air and wide-open spaces and a chance to maybe see some wildlife up close and personal.

And let's be honest, nothing screams big sky country, quiet like a giant, shaggy bison, blocking traffic or out munching grass in the field.

Here's the deal, Bison are great to look at from afar, not up close and personal!

Bison Etiquette 101

🚫 1. Don’t Challenge It to a Staring Contest

Yes, bison are fascinating, but if you find yourself staring too long, the thing might think that you're giving it the side eye.

Not only might the bison think that you're trying to square off with it, but they're also ungodly fast, so just remember that next time you are gazing at one.

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🚫 2. Don’t Treat It Like a Petting Zoo

For the Love of God, no!

Do not try to pet the 2000-pound fluffy linebacker.

Nor get close enough to take a selfie. They will kill you.

🚫 3. Don’t Assume the Fence Is There for Them

If you see some bison behind a fence, don't think you're safe.

A barbed wire fence might as well be made of string if a bison decides to charge through it.

🚫 4. Don’t Honk Your Horn

You might think that a little beep out of your horn will help the bison move along more quickly.

But in all reality, this will likely tick it off and increase your chances of getting rammed.

I've personally seen this happen.

🚫 5. Don’t Try to Outrun One

If you do find yourself being pursued by a bison, don't think you're out going to outrun it.

They can easily hit 35 miles an hour.

✅ Do This Instead:

• Stay in your vehicle.

• Keep at least 25 yards away (more if it’s looking moody). Personally, I'd stay further away.

• Take photos with a zoom lens, not right up next to one.

• Admire from afar, these things are incredibly wild and unruly.

Final Thought:

Montana is the last best place for a reason, so remember that.

Come here, enjoy it, and don't do anything stupid and you'll be just fine.