European Bison Knocks Down Tourist Near Bialowieza Forest as Passing Car Distracts Animal

Q: How did a passing nature photographer manage to outsmart a massive European bison and save a fallen tourist from a deadly trampling?

He saved the tourist by using his car as a moving shield and distraction. Nature photographer Grzegorz Ryński, who witnessed and filmed the encounter, reportedly told the man to stay still, then slowly drove toward the bison with a car door left partly open so the injured tourist could climb inside. That maneuver pulled the animal’s attention away from the man, who had been knocked down after approaching the bison too closely, reportedly within about four or five meters. Video and witness accounts said the bison stayed over or near him and struck again when he tried to get up. Ryński’s intervention created the opening the tourist needed. Reports say the man appeared shocked and did not immediately get into the vehicle, instead moving away on foot. Ryński then carefully reversed alongside him until they were far enough from the bison to reach safety. The rescue worked because Ryński did not try to confront the animal directly on foot. He used distance, the bulk of the vehicle and slow, controlled movement to redirect the bison without escalating the situation further. The tourist was later reported to have suffered a deep cut to his calf and heavy bruising, but not life-threatening injuries. The incident has renewed warnings from officials and local observers that European bison are powerful wild animals and should never be approached for photos or selfies.

3 articles · Updated · periskopi.com · Aug 5

A tourist was knocked to the ground near Poland's Bialowieza Forest after a European bison charged and attacked him.
Witnesses said the bison stayed close to the fallen man until a passing car diverted the animal, letting the tourist get away.
Authorities urged visitors again to keep a safe distance from wild animals in the area.