Copyright © 2001 NLThomas
All Rights Reserved

        It appears the 'powers that be' decided to leave the bison alone this week. Most of the animals that were hazed with the helicopter on February 14th have returned to the habitat that they were in.

My thoughts on patrol the other day:

        The day began with a stunning, rosy red sunrise; ice crystals glistening in the cold, still morning air. The power of the bison transcends time and space as they graze; huge, frost covered humps swaying back and forth in the snow. Onlookers felt that they were part of the tremendous beauty that enveloped them. They too, shared the strength that rippled through the necks and shoulders of these magnificent creatures.

        The patience of the bison was a message that could not be ignored. Here they were again, foraging for last summer's grass. Out in the harsh winter 24-7; surviving, thriving like no other can. They know not the boundaries of civilization, fences are but a nuisance. Their boldness is part of what scares people. The other wildlife hide in the trees, but the bison graze and chew their cud out in the open. Afraid of nothing living, bison represent something we wish we were.

        The last of the wild bison continue to do the hard work. They survive and reproduce in one of the harshest environments on the continent. They keep up attempts to regain their lands. Slowly, they continue into the storm, head down, grazing as they go. We work to welcome them home.

For the wild ones,

Pete Leusch