A selfie gone wrong in Yellowstone
Yellowstone National Park is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife in North America. But as the park’s popularity grows, so do the stories of tourists—affectionately dubbed “tourons”—who dangerously underestimate the wild creatures they encounter.
The latest cautionary tale involves Lee Bangbang, a tourist from sunny San Diego, whose unforgettable selfie attempt left him with more than memories.
Mistaken identity: “a sweet little yellow bear”
During a visit to Yellowstone’s lush forests, Lee’s excitement peaked when he saw a slow-moving animal he described as “a lovable giant ball of fur.” Without hesitation, he handed his iPad to his wife and approached the animal for what he thought would be a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity.
Unfortunately, that “sweet little yellow bear” was actually a porcupine—a creature known more for its quills than its cuddly demeanor. As Lee posed mere inches away, the porcupine, startled by his proximity, defended itself in the only way it knew how.
The aftermath: hospital quills and hard lessons
Park rangers quickly responded to the scene, finding Lee covered in quills from head to toe. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where medical staff spent hours removing dozens of the barbed quills embedded in his skin.
Lee later joked, “I just wanted a selfie, not acupuncture.” However, his mishap serves as a serious reminder of how critical it is to respect wildlife and keep a safe distance.
The rise of “touron” culture
Incidents like Lee’s are becoming all too common, earning tourists like him the nickname “tourons.” From trying to pet bison to feeding bears, many visitors fail to grasp the reality of interacting with wild animals. Yellowstone officials have repeatedly emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe distance from wildlife for both personal safety and animal welfare.
Wildlife safety 101
If you’re planning a trip to Yellowstone or any other wildlife sanctuary, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Maintain distance: Stay at least 25 yards away from animals like deer, elk, and porcupines, and 100 yards from predators like bears and wolves.
- Don’t feed the animals: Feeding wildlife can alter their natural behaviors and make them more dangerous.
- Use zoom lenses: Want a great photo? Invest in a good zoom lens instead of risking your safety by getting too close.
A lesson for all tourists
While Lee’s porcupine selfie story will likely go down as one of Yellowstone’s more bizarre incidents, it highlights the need for education and awareness among tourists visiting national parks.
So, next time you visit a national park, remember: the animals aren’t props—they’re wild creatures that deserve respect. And if you must take a selfie, make sure it’s at a safe distance!
