2 Hikers Survive Yellowstone National Park May 4 Bear Maulings

Officials at Yellowstone National Park have released details regarding a May 4 bear mauling involving two hikers. Both victims survived the attack and have been hospitalized. There have been unconfirmed reports that multiple bears might have been involved.

Early spring is the time of year when bears begin hunting for food following months of hibernation. While bear attacks against humans are not common, the park will likely begin getting reports of sightings regularly for the next five to six months due to the warmer weather and start of tourist season.

Monday's attack was the first reported incident of its kind of the year, according to the National Park Service.

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Two Hikers Were Hospitalized Monday Following An Attack By Yellowstone Park Bears

According to details shared by Yellowstone officials, one victim was airlifted out following the attack on a trail near Old Faithful geyser, in a Wyoming portion of the park.

READ MORE: 19-Mile Long Pressure Bump In Yellowstone Park Monitored

Since the park first opened to the public in 1872, there have been just eight fatal bear attacks confirmed, according to a Yellowstone Park newsletter, and all but one were from Grizzly bears.

When encountering a bear on trails inside the park, rangers advise slow movements away from the animals and a posture that is non-threatening. Bears get particularly aggressive when encountering humans while with their cubs.

No further details have been released that provide any information on the severity of the injuries sustained from the Monday attacks. Park officials also advise visitors to never attempt to feed wildlife.