My bison photography from Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming was published in The Times news in pictures gallery. The image shows a group of bison crossing a park road while onlookers keep a safe distance. It captures what makes Grand Teton so special: wild animals and people sharing the same landscape.
Caption: Bison cross a road at Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming as onlookers keep a safe distance. Photo: Ronen Tivony
The Story Behind This Grand Teton Bison Photo
Bison crossing a road is a common sight in Grand Teton. Still, it never gets old. The herd moves at its own pace, and traffic simply waits until the last animal is across. What drew me to this scene was the people as much as the bison. Instead of rushing in for a close shot, the onlookers held back and gave the herd room. That respect is the real story here. It shows how wildlife viewing should work in a national park.
Meet the Jackson Bison Herd
The bison you see in Grand Teton belong to the Jackson bison herd. About 600 bison live in the park today. Most of the herd spends the summer inside Grand Teton and moves to the National Elk Refuge near Jackson for the winter. The herd also has a surprising history. Bison had disappeared from Jackson Hole by the time homesteaders arrived in 1884. Then, in 1948, 20 bison from Yellowstone were brought to a fenced wildlife park near Moran. In 1968, the small herd escaped the enclosure. A year later, managers decided to let the bison roam free. Today’s herd grew from that small group. Bison are also the largest land mammal in North America. According to the National Park Service, bulls can weigh up to 2,000 pounds and bison can run up to 35 miles per hour. In 2016, the American bison became the national mammal of the United States.
Why Bison Photography at Grand Teton Is So Rewarding
Few places offer this mix of wildlife and scenery. You can photograph bison on open sagebrush flats with the jagged Teton Range rising behind them. In addition, the herd is easy to find, so you can spend your time on light and composition instead of searching. Some of the best areas to look are Antelope Flats and Elk Ranch Flats. Bison also cross the main park highway, especially when snow pushes them onto the roads. For that reason, Grand Teton National Park asks drivers to slow down, stay alert and wait for crossing herds to pass.
Tips for Photographing Bison at Grand Teton
Safely First, keep your distance. Park rules require you to stay at least 25 yards from bison and all other wildlife, and at least 100 yards from bears and wolves. A common trick is to hold out your arm and give the bison a thumbs-up. If your thumb covers the whole animal, you are likely far enough away. Second, bring a long lens. A telephoto zoom in the 200mm to 600mm range lets you fill the frame without getting close. As a result, you get natural behavior from relaxed animals. Third, use pullouts and parking areas. Never stop in the road to take pictures. When bison are on or near the road, the park encourages visitors to stay in their vehicles. Fourth, include the setting. Bison look powerful up close, but a wider shot with the mountains or people in the frame often tells a better story. That is exactly what I aimed for with this image. Finally, watch the animals, not just the viewfinder. The National Park Service warns that a raised tail, head bobbing, pawing, snorting or a bluff charge means you are too close. If you see any of these signs, back away slowly.
Improve Your Wildlife Photography With Me
Good bison photography at Grand Teton, or anywhere else, comes down to fieldcraft, patience and respect for the animals. I teach those same skills on my wildlife photography workshops and private sessions.
Want feedback on your own wildlife images, including your bison photos from the West? Book an online critique and portfolio review.
Bison Photography Grand Teton FAQ
Where can I see bison in Grand Teton National Park?
Bison are often seen on Antelope Flats and Elk Ranch Flats, and they regularly cross park roads. In winter, much of the herd moves south toward the National Elk Refuge near Jackson.
How close can you get to bison in Grand Teton?
Park rules require you to stay at least 25 yards from bison at all times. For bears and wolves, the minimum distance is 100 yards.
How many bison live in Grand Teton?
About 600 bison live in Grand Teton National Park. They are part of the Jackson bison herd, which also winters on the National Elk Refuge.
What lens is best for photographing bison?
A telephoto zoom in the 200mm to 600mm range works well. It lets you capture close detail while staying a safe and legal distance away.
Are bison dangerous?
Yes. Bison may look calm, but they are huge, fast and unpredictable. Bulls can weigh up to 2,000 pounds and bison can run up to 35 miles per hour, so always give them space.
What should I do if bison are crossing the road?
Slow down, stop safely and wait for the whole herd to pass. Stay in your vehicle and never try to drive through the herd.