‘1 In 10 Million’ White Buffalo Calf Born In Wyoming State Park
Written by Mac Watson on May 29, 2023
A rare, white bison calf has been born at the state park, officials are reporting.
A Facebook post on May 16th from park officials shows a 2-year-old white bison, named Wyoming Hope, gave birth to her white calf in the park. It is, indeed, a rare event. The National Bison Association told KUTV the birth of a white bison is normally a “1 in 10 million” occurrence.
Park officials are saying that this phenomenon of a white bison and her white calf is because of a small amount of cattle DNA mixed in with bison genetics and not a fluke like albinism. “It isn’t unusual that the calf is white, too,” according to the park.
Park officials are warning visitors who want to witness the DNA deviance to keep a safe distance, not only for their safety but also for the new mom. “Please continue to give the bison room to try out motherhood and tend to their young!” park officials said.
People, including some Native American tribes, consider a white bison being born is a spiritual, almost mystical, event. The way it is described by Native Americans is a white buffalo is the “most sacred living thing on Earth,” so says the National Park Service.
“When a white buffalo calf is born, it is a sign that their prayers are being heard and that the promises of the prophecy are being fulfilled,” the park service explains.
Bear River Park Superintendent Tyfani Sager says the calf is small, but overall it is doing very well. The sex of the calf isn’t known yet because “[The bison calf] was born real furry, so it’s hard to tell off the bat.”
Bear River State Park is in the southwest corner of Wyoming near the Utah border.
