Observing wildlife in their native habitat can be a thrilling experience. However, it’s important to follow safe wildlife watching practices to protect the health of wildlife...and yourself! Injuries from wildlife are not a pleasant way to spend your vacation. Bison and elk can gore, butt, or toss visitors. Yee-haw! Snakes can strike, and bears can maul. Smaller wildlife such as squirrels and fox can bite and may carry ticks, fleas, or rabies that can make you or your pet sick. Awesome. Who’s ready for a hike? Don’t worry. You can help keep yourself and other visitors safe and wildlife wild by setting a good example and treating wildlife with proper caution and respect. First off, remember that wild animals are unpredictable. That’s why each park requires visitors to stay a certain distance away from animals, usually 25 yards from most wildlife and 100 yards from large wildlife like bears or wolves. (Always check with the park you’re visiting.) Next, it’s your responsibility to m...