A SYMBOL OF HOPE As 2020 draws to a close, it’s fitting to showcase

While the terms “bison” and “buffalo” are often used interchangeably, they are, in-fact, distinctively different animals.

Most commonly known as, “the one that got away,” a White Buffalo, in any regard, is well-respected and rare. These magnificent creatures are indeed extraordinary and hold significant stature, across the land. Rooted in First Nations culture and revered by many, the legend of the White Buffalo bears relation to a local example. As 2020 draws to a close, it’s fitting to showcase a rare symbol of strength and hope, following a year of unconventional change.

The legend of the White Buffalo is a common thread among many First Nations communities. While there is not a definitive version of the story, each boasts a common theme of unity and optimism. In summary, a young woman appeared to famished, native hunters, in search of food for their people. She told them to return home and announce her arrival. She later appeared, with a sacred pipe, and expressed the interconnected nature of the world. She taught rituals that focused on strength, gratitude and hope. Before leaving the fire, she rolled on the ground four times, changing colour with each revolution. Finally, she transformed into a white buffalo calf. As she departed, great herds of buffalo surrounded the camp, providing an abundance of food. The legend of the White Buffalo was born.

White Buffalo, extremely rare, are often confused with their close counterparts. In fact, the National Bison Association notes that only 1 in every 10 million bison born are truly white. In addition, while the terms “bison” and “buffalo” are often used interchangeably, they are, in-fact, distinctively different animals. It’s speculated that the mixup began with early European explorers. Some believe that bison hides resembled “buff coats,” worn by military personnel, thus inspiring the namesake. Both animals belong to the bovidae family but are not closely related. Buffalo (Cape Buffalo and Water Buffalo) are native to Africa, while Bison are native to North America and Europe. The two animals bear distinct characteristics and are easily differentiated. Bison have large humps at their shoulders and have much bigger heads than buffalo. They also have thick coats and full beards. Bison horns are typically much smaller than buffalo. They curve upward, directly from the side of the animal’s skull. Buffalo, on the other hand, have a much slicker coat and a smaller head. Their horns form a wide, helmetlike plate, across the top of their skull. Buffalo horns basically resemble a handle bar moustache, in shape. A common feature that the two share is that they do not “moo.” Both animals grunt, snort and bellow to convey their mood.

A true, White Bison has a white coat with dark skin and dark eyes. While most bison change colour as they age, true White Bison are born fairly white and only have dark features. Albino herd members are the most common oversight when identifying them. These cases, with pink eyes and skin, remain unpigmented their entire lives. Another common oversight is a leucistic animal. These too have a white coat but have blue eyes. A final misconception are Beefalo. These commonly mistaken replicas of “White Buffalo,” attribute their lighter appearance to their cattle ancestry.

Our local landscape is blessed with a pristine example of a true White Bison. A six-year-old bull owned by western icon, John Scott, stems from story himself. Born on Scott’s ranch, in Longview, AB, the un-named prodigy, arrived after great anticipation. His sire, Teton, a pricey specimen from North Dakota, migrated to Canada and originally settled on the Rafter 6 Ranch. His owner, at the time, fell on misfortune and asked Scott to care for the prized possession. Scott integrated the magnificent, white bull with his solid brown herd and waited for nature to take its course. Initially, the distinct bull was run-off by dominant herd sires. After two years and herd revision, the bull successfully covered some of Scott’s brown bison females.

The rest is history.

Several white, bison calves now roam Scott’s ranch, nestled in the foothills. Teton’s son, Scott’s featured “White Buffalo” – who is now a herd sire himself – is a sight to see. He extends his father’s legacy with poise and distinct presence. Amidst the stunning herd of brown bison, he and a few of his rare progeny send a message of patience, unity, and hope.

Looking back, 2020 has been a year filled with challenge. More importantly, 2020 has been a year of realization. With hope, unity and strength, we can accomplish great things. Like a rare bison, we are reminded to revere messages of hope and recount the blessings that have been bestowed upon us. All too often, we overlook the little things that truly are the most important. Regardless of situation, together, we can press forward and support each other with appreciation of family, friends and good-fortune.

Did you know…

Bison are a very lean and cholesterol friendly source of protein. They’re a very hardy species who thrive in cold climates and have very little body fat. Their incredible metabolism allows them to conserve energy in even the most-harsh conditions. In fact, they consume a fraction of feed in comparison to their beef counterparts. In an intense storm they will actually hunker down with their robust heads facing the wind! Unlike beef and other livestock, they don’t require bedding and do best with minimal interaction while calving.

Bison in Film

Known for his mastery in film, John Scott recounted a unique experience where his bison took the role. While the white bison have yet to make film debut, their herd mates, have taken part in several productions. One in particular left a mark. When recreating an accident scene, that took place in Yellowstone National Park, Scott’s bulls displayed how intense bison can be. A trio of brown bulls were used to replicate the goring of a photographer, who got too close. For the movie Fear Factor, a dummy was dropped into a pen of three bulls to recreate the accident. Scott noted that in a matter of two seconds the most-feisty of the bulls went to town. He hooked with his left. Hooked with his right and then kicked. The recreation was intense and eye-opening. The finale of the film showcased the main-character petting a much more-gentle bison, overcoming his fear!