A remarkable surprise unfolded at Bear River State Park in Evanston, Wyoming, as park officials discovered a rare addition to their bison herd. Among the
reddish-brown bison calves, a small, white bundle of joy appeared, becoming the first white calf born in the park's 32-year history.
Staff members stumbled upon the "little white ball of fluff" earlier this month, and the news quickly spread, attracting a flock of excited visitors to the area. The park named the newborn calf Wyoming Hope, and it was born on May 16 to its white mother, also named Wyoming Hope. The birth of a white calf is an extraordinary occurrence, as confirmed by Bear River officials. They explained that because the mother is white, it is not surprising that the calf shares the same coloration.
White bison hold deep significance for many Native American tribes, including the Sioux, Cherokee, Navaho, Lakota, and Dakota. These tribes consider white buffalo as sacred, representing a profound message from the Creator or Great Spirit. Blair Gopher, a member of the Blackfeet and Ojibwe tribes, expressed this sentiment, emphasizing the cultural and spiritual importance of white buffalo.
While white buffalo births have become more common due to breeding practices in recent years, the whiteness of their coat is the result of a recessive gene. It's worth noting that not all white calves retain their white coloration into adulthood, according to wildlife biologist Craig Knowles, who has extensive experience working with buffaloes. Private ranchers sometimes find white buffalo to be financially advantageous, as there is a demand for selectively breeding white bulls and cows, attracting substantial payments from interested buyers.
The arrival of the rare white bison calf at Bear River State Park has sparked excitement and wonder among visitors. Its unique presence serves as a reminder of the park's commitment to the preservation and appreciation of the diverse wildlife found within its boundaries. Photo by USFWS Mountain-Prairie, Wikimedia commons.