Drone Misuse in Yellowstone Angers Onlookers and Grizzlies Alike

Fur was flying when tourists in Yellowstone National Park were trying to observe one of the park's iconic animals, from a safe distance, only to have their viewing disrupted.

DRONE OVER BERYL

Angela Montana, digital editor and outdoor writer for the Montana Outdoor Radio Show, tells us that an amateur drone operator learned the hard way that violating Yellowstone National Park rules is a great way to anger both park rangers and a crowd of protective tourists.

While onlookers were watching Beryl, a famous resident grizzly mama, and her two cubs, a small drone began buzzing dangerously low over the bears, sparking instant outrage from the crowd.

It is obvious in the footage that Mama Beryl is well aware of an object coming very low to the ground. While she does not appear to try to attack the drone, she can be seen trying to get away from it with her cubs. She would trot a short distance away as the drone ascended then dropped back down. This went on several times, all the while making the cubs her priority, as they would react to her sudden movements.

READ MORE: Steamed Judge Scalds Yellowstone Park Offender With Jail Time

PARK RANGER INTERVENES

It should come as a surprise to no one that flying un-crewed aircraft (i.e. drones) is strictly illegal in Yellowstone National Park, a rule meant to protect wildlife among other mishaps. It is also a good way to face a hefty fine.

The confusion over who owned the drone ended abruptly when a park ranger cut through the noise and firmly demanded to know who was operating the device.

You can see the bears' reactions to the intrusion here.