This week in the field West Yellowstone, our presence in the field begins to become especially important as the Buffalo mothers, who have been fighting for their survival all winter, begin giving birth to their calves.
As beautiful and cute as they are, the calves, the new generation, are the symbol of a fresh start. They are the young who must learn how to survive from their elders, and will one day be leading the herd. Because of this they are sacred and precious, a necessary renewal for the Buffalo herd.
We must do all we can to protect them and ensure the survival of the Buffalo - for they are the future of Buffalo. And we as humans have much to learn from how Buffalo protect and nourish their young. Without taking care of our young, and understanding the renewal that has to happen with each generation, we continue to destroy our Earth and set ourselves up for disaster.
Yet, here, in the vast beauty of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, we celebrate that every new born calf is a victory!
Don J Miller Volunteer Story
A whale center on an island in Washington state may seem an unusual place to start a Buffalo journey but, indeed, that is where mine began. Mike Mease, co-founder of Buffalo Field Campaign was presenting his roadshow on the plight of the Yellowstone Buffalo herds. His program was moving and I became a modest BFC monthly donor. Fast forward ten years I am now retired, still busy, but a little more flexible in my time. It seemed like a time to experience and make another type of contribution for Buffalo. I sent in an application and I am glad to say BFC agreed.
Though I have followed BFC’s newsletter and actions for years there is nothing that really compares to being physically present. Setting out the BUFFALO ON ROAD signs, observing the herds, seeing new calves; all these experiences reinforced my commitment. The Buffalo never ceased to amaze and teach me. I knew Buffalo were agile and could move fast but watching one after another Buffalo walk up to a guard rail, scratch their chest, then crouch and leap over it was a sight I will never forget. And they have mystery moves. You may count a sizable herd grazing seemingly slow in their movements, but when you circle back in 15 minutes, they have all disappeared.
I have photographed since my adolescent years and provide programs on keeping ourselves right with the planet that is life’s place. A number of folks that have seen my prior program are asking about a program from this trip.
I thank the BFC staff for this opportunity. I see them working with such love and dedication. Let’s get some more recruits. Seeing the reason for wild Buffalo is a vision right with Earth.
Don J Miller
delicatelightphotography.com
When a BFC Road Sign is Stolen
Unfortunately, one of our "Buffalo on Road” signs was stolen about 2 weeks ago. Then, this accident occurred around 1am on April 28 on Highway 191 about 1/4 mile south of Rainbow Point Rd in the south bound lane. This is a major migration corridor for our last wild bison and BFC Night Patrols maintain our signs here especially during Spring Migration and Calving Season (check out our video on FB/IG). The injured Buffalo had two broken legs but managed to get itself about 150 yards away from the highway. Montana Department of Livestock then euthanized them. Luckily, the driver did not have any serious injuries and said there had been a herd on the highway.
For anyone living in the area, please spread the word that BFC’s presence and our large reflective “Buffalo on Road” signs are a vital part of keeping our whole community safe. If you happen to find our sign, please return it to our headquarters or to any of our field patrols…no questions asked.
Thank you and drive slowly and safely…for the Buffalo.
