A photographer, Erin Braaten of Dancing Aspens Photography in Kalispell, Montana, recently captured images of a rare white bison calf at Yellowstone National Park. Braaten shared the potentially sacred sighting, which took place in the Lamar Valley section of the park. She described the moment as unexpected, as she initially mistook the calf for a coyote before realizing its true identity.
Braaten, a mother of eight, was exploring the park with her husband and three youngest children when they encountered the white bison calf. She recounted how she had her camera ready and was able to snap a photo of the rare sighting. The family was so amazed by the experience that they quickly turned around to return to the location where they had spotted the calf.
The birth of the white bison calf holds special significance for the Lakota tribe. Chief Arvol Looking Horse, the spiritual leader of the Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota Oyate in South Dakota, explained that the calf’s birth is believed to symbolize both blessings and warnings. The sighting of the white buffalo calf with its black features is reminiscent of a sacred prophecy from the tribe’s legends.
According to Lakota legend, the White Buffalo Calf Woman appeared in a time of need when bison were disappearing, and food was scarce. She gifted a tribal member with a bowl pipe and a bundle before teaching the Lakota people how to pray. The prophecy tells of her promise to return in the form of a white buffalo calf with black eyes, nose, and hooves during difficult times.
Chief Looking Horse likened the birth of the white bison calf to the second coming of Jesus, emphasizing the importance of the calf’s appearance. The uniqueness of the calf’s physical characteristics, with black eyes indicating that it is a true white bison and not an albino, adds to the significance of the sighting.
While there is no definitive count of previous white bison sightings, it is clear that the birth of the white calf at Yellowstone National Park is a rare and special occurrence. Braaten expressed her amazement at witnessing such a rare sight and the excitement of capturing it on camera.
The sighting of the white buffalo calf has drawn attention from various groups, including nature enthusiasts and photography lovers. Braaten described the experience as surreal and mind-blowing, emphasizing the importance of having her family present to witness the event.
As news of the white bison calf spreads, it serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of nature and the importance of preserving sacred traditions. The spiritual significance of the sighting resonates with those who appreciate the symbolism and beauty of this rare occurrence in the wild.
Overall, the sighting of the white bison calf at Yellowstone National Park is a testament to the power of nature and the cultural significance of rare wildlife encounters. As people around the world marvel at the images captured by Braaten, they are reminded of the importance of respecting and protecting our natural world.
