What to do when a wild animal attacks
By Elaine Glusac, New York Times
Run or fight? That is the question prompted by a series of recent animal attacks on humans, including an alligator that dragged a 2-year-old to his death in an Orlando lake earlier this month. Last weekend, CNN reported that a mountain lion in Colorado attacked a 5-year-old boy, who was saved when his mother pried away the child from the animal.
While both of those incidents were rare events, travelers seeking to watch wildlife or spend time in national parks and preserves should maintain a safe distance from any animals encountered, say experts.
“You’re safer in a national park than you are in any city if you use respect and allow the animal a comfort zone,” said Jack Hanna, the director emeritus of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium who has hosted several television series devoted to wildlife.