Yellowstone photographers reveal fates of three famous bison

Wildlife photographers are providing final updates on three bison that gained national attention during the 2026 summer season in Yellowstone National Park. The herd members, known to fans as Tiny Tim, Spinny, and the Bridge Bay bull, have all experienced different outcomes as the park enters its autumn phase. April Holm, a wildlife photographer, believes Tiny Tim has died after not being seen since early September.

Tiny Tim was identified by a leg injury that forced him to hop on three legs near Canyon Village. Holm began sharing his progress with followers in June. The bull was last confirmed crossing the Yellowstone River in Hayden Valley on Sept. 9. On Oct. 30, Holm posted what she described as the final update. She learned from the park's bear management team that a bison carcass was found in an area where the Howard Eaton Trail was blocked by wolves and grizzlies.

The carcass was located in the exact spot where Tiny Tim was last seen crossing the river. Holm stated that it is a safe assumption the bull is no longer alive. She attributed his disappearance to tourists approaching him too closely after he became well known. The bull had lived in the same meadow for at least two winters before moving ten miles in six weeks.

Tammy Neufeld, another wildlife photographer, reports that Spinny is still alive. The bull was first seen spinning along the river shore in mid-September with bloody eyes. Neufeld last saw him foraging in a meadow on Oct. 29. She said the bison has gained weight and is moving more confidently. She believes a hard head injury from another bull caused his condition rather than a disease.

Spinny still exhibits confusion and slow spinning, particularly near tree lines. Neufeld said his eyesight remains heavily impacted. She expressed hope that he will find enough forage to survive the upcoming winter. The bull is currently in a good area with access to food and water, often seen with other bulls.

The bison that injured 65-year-old Carl McDaniel at Bridge Bay Campground on July 10 has not been identified by name. McDaniel was thrown eight feet into the air and suffered a broken femur. Photographer Mike MacLeod, who captured the incident, said McDaniel is recovering well in Kendall, Washington. McDaniel recently completed a five-kilometer charity walk using a cane and has resumed driving.

Yellowstone officials did not euthanize or relocate the aggressive bull. McDaniel supported that decision because he did not want the animal killed for behaving like itself. MacLeod said the bison escaped into anonymity and is still free in the park. The three photographers agree that allowing nature to take its course is the best approach for the wildlife in the ecosystem.