Two weekends ago, I took these pictures while a group of us were guiding a respectably sized herd of buffalo back to pastures that lie between the Cheyenne River Ranch and the Cheyenne River itself. For the last five and a half months these animal’s temporary home has been an ever changing landscape, comprised of windy creeks, badland buttes and open prairies surround by walls of steep hills that are peppered with cedar trees.
Buffalo National Grasslands
As we moved the herd, we watched them float across the landscape. They knew where every creek crossing and green patch of grass was. Although some of the older cows didn’t seem to be in a hurry to head back to the other side of the river, they still moved at a pace that showed purpose. These cows will soon begin to gather in maternity wards in preparation for spring calving. The new calves will spend the early months of their life in pastures that lack the buttes, creeks, and steep draw banks. Instead, they will take their first shaky steps on land that seems to extend to the horizon. As spring turns to summer, the new calves will venture around the wide open country as they follow the rest of the herd. Just as they start to become familiar with the terrain, the time will come for them to head out with the rest of the herd for life on the other side of the river.
Free Roaming Buffalo
Comments 6
Jilian – The photos are just fantastic. Loved your story, what a wonderful experience. So happy to share this life of ours with you and Colton!
Mom
Thanks mom 🙂 You’ve given us such a wonderful opportunity!!
Jilly,
This is great! You described that day in a way that should make folks feel what it was like. Cool Pics.
Keep it up.
love ya, Dan
Love the pics…they make my heart sing. Keep up the good work.
Darcie
What a lovely piece of writing. I was right in the moment. Loved the pic too. I can tell who your mentors were. Looking forward to reading more from you. Ann
Love seeing and hearing about the work you do. Outstanding images and your words put me right there with you. Thank you for the experience!