Yellowstone National Park warns visitors after child chased by bison

A child narrowly escaped injury after being chased by a bison at Yellowstone National Park when a group of visitors approached the animal too closely.

The incident was captured on video by Brittany Peteler. The footage shows a woman safely walking past the bison before another group, including several children, moved towards it despite warnings from onlookers.

As the group drew closer, one child ran, prompting the bison to give chase for several seconds before the youngster escaped unharmed.

The incident comes as park officials continue urging visitors to keep a safe distance from wildlife.

"Bison have injured more people in Yellowstone than any other animal," officials said.

"They are unpredictable, can run three times faster than humans and will defend their space when threatened," the National Park Service said.

"Wild animals can be aggressive when people do not respect their space. Visitors are responsible for staying at least 25 yards away from all large animals, including bison, elk, bighorn sheep, deer, moose and coyotes."

The latest incident follows several recent encounters involving bison in Yellowstone, including a fisherman who narrowly avoided being charged, a vehicle struck by a bison and a 65-year-old visitor who suffered multiple broken bones after being attacked in July.

Park authorities are continuing to remind visitors that bison are wild animals and can become aggressive without warning, particularly during the summer breeding season.