Rare sighting in Yellowstone National Park

Photo+courtesy+of+Yellowstone+Insight

Photo courtesy of Yellowstone Insight

Mackenzie Mlocek

McNeil Lyons, a tour guide of the famous Yellowstone National Park, encountered a rare occurrence when spotting a wolverine right in front of him. Wolverine:  a long animal that is low to the ground. Contains strong limbs, head and ears that are round with small eyes. After first hearing the description of a wolverine, it may not sound as scary. Yet, wolverines are considered dangerous. Kidadl claims, “wolverine claws are very deadly, sharp and capable of killing humans.” Seeing a wolverine may be extremely scary in real life. Although, that is not how tour guide of Yellowstone National Park, McNeil Lyons felt after spotting one. He said, “We actually were very blessed to be there at that exact moment to witness this rare animal before it scampered back into the dense evergreen forest that parallels that stretch of Yellowstone’s road corridor.” Surprisingly, the tour guide felt this moment was a great thing to witness and was not scared. 

 

Yellowstone National Park is a part of three different states. They are Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming. It is well known around the world and there is an average of 4.02 million visitors each year according to statista.com. It was first established way back on March 1st, 1872. For Lyons it had been awhile since he found an animal and captured a picture. NBC news claims, “When Lyons spotted the animal this month, it was the first time he had done so in more than 20 years of working and traveling in the park.” This was not only an exciting experience for the tour guide because it was extremely rare.

Do people need to beware when encountering a wolverine? Webcenter Fairbanks claims, “there has never been a documented case of an attack on a human by a wolverine.” Wolverines are able to kill other animals though like bears and wolves, but luckily it doesn’t seem as if humans have to be on a lookout. . Also, according to alusive.com, “there have only been eight confirmed sightings of the animal in Yellowstone National Park over the past 43 years.” Wolverines aren’t particularly something anyone needs to worry about, but it still may be nerve wracking seeing one out in the open. If you’re lucky enough to spot a wolverine that is in range, don’t be hesitant to snap a picture. You never know if and when you’ll see one again.