Yellowstone Bison Attack Victim Tells His Story From Hospital Bed

By now, we all know the story of the sweet old gentleman who was tossed eight feet in the air by a bison in Yellowstone. Finally, we get to hear the story in his own words as he talks to a reporter from CBS News.

It can honestly be said that it was not his fault, unlike the many other cases of bison attacks in Yellowstone. This time, he was more than the recommended distance away and was not doing anything to antagonize the beast.

In the interview, he gives credit to the bison for having mercy on him.

The bison rut in Yellowstone peaks in late July and early to mid-August, with the broader mating season lasting from June into September. You can tell when a bull is feeling the "mood" when he starts to wallow in the dirt. When you see that, keep a healthy distance.

This bull was doing just that, wallowing in the dirt, snorting and making other aggressive gestures. At this point, he was looking for something to fight.

The white pickup truck that drove by honked its horn a few times, and it looked as if the bison was going after it. But the truck sped away. So, the big fellow went looking for another target. That's when he saw the old man.

The old man, as I keep calling him, is Carl McDaniel, a 65-year-old grandfather. He is recovering in a Montana hospital. He suffered a broken femur and a fractured hip. All surgeries were successful. He is in his usual good spirits.