Copyright © 2002 NLThomas
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West Yellowstone, MT - Warm, sunny weather has been melting the snow rapidly and the first green shoots on Horse Butte are calling the buffalo back to their preferred calving grounds. A group of 18 buffalo answered the call on Monday and made the 5 mile journey from the Yellowstone boundary to the butte, following the river bluffs that meander along the north side of the Madison. BFC volunteers were blessed to be in their presence, amidst the eagles and swans, for one idyllic day.

As the sun rose over the Madison River on Wednesday, another day of high drama was unfolding at Horse Butte. The small herd and BFC volunteers put in a great effort to thwart yet another capture operation, but by the end of the day 15 bison had been captured. Three bison joined a female and calf that had been released two weeks ago and escaped the capture. Six of the bison were sent to slaughter this morning. Nine bison that tested negative were released at Horse Butte.

The weekly harassment, torture, and slaughter of these magnificent creatures is difficult to take. It seems it may be even harder to hear the news from afar than it is to witness in person. Volunteers in camp were deeply hurt by yesterday's events, but another beautiful day is here, and we know many more bison are making their way towards the park border.