Native American ceremony celebrates birth of rare white buffalo in Yellowstone

In a heartwarming ceremony near Hebgen Lake just outside Yellowstone National Park, hundreds of people gathered Wednesday to celebrate the birth of a rare white buffalo. As Chief Arvol Looking Horse revealed the calf’s name, Wakan Gli, which means “Sacred Return” in Lakota, the crowd erupted in joy. The event was an important part of a Native American religious ceremony that included dancing, drumming, singing and storytelling.

Earlier this month, the little white buffalo was born in Yellowstone National Park’s lush Lamar Valley, where large herds of bison graze, reminiscent of the old American West. For many Native American tribes, the birth of this calf is considered the fulfillment of a sacred prophecy and a reminder to better care for the Earth.

What is the meaning of the name white buffalo calf?
The calf was named Wakan Gli, which means “Sacred Return” in Lakota. Chief Arvol Looking Horse explained that the name reflects the sacred and prophetic nature of the birth of the calf.

How was the birth of the calf celebrated?
The birth was commemorated with a Native American religious ceremony that included dancing, drumming, singing and the telling of the legend of the white buffalo calf woman. About 500 people, including representatives from various tribes, attended the ceremony at the Buffalo Field Campaign headquarters near Hebgen Lake.

Why is the white buffalo important to Native American tribes?
The white buffalo calf holds deep spiritual significance for many Native American tribes. This is considered both a blessing and a warning. According to Lakota legend, the white buffalo woman appeared 2,000 years ago during difficult times and promised to return in time of need in the form of a small white buffalo. Chief Looking Horse said, “It’s up to each and every one of you to make this happen for the future of our children. We need to come together and bring back that good energy.

What is the current state of the white bison?
The calf was last seen shortly after its birth on June 4. Since then, it has not been spotted, leading to fears that it may have fallen victim to predators, river currents, disease or other dangers. However, his birth remains an auspicious sign deeply rooted in Lakota legend and spiritual belief.

How rare is the birth of a white buffalo calf in Yellowstone?
White buffalo calves are extremely rare, especially in the wild. Although white calves may appear on buffalo ranches due to crossbreeding with cattle, there is no record of a white bison born in Yellowstone, the continent’s largest wildlife preserve, in recent memory , if ever.

What message does the birth of the white buffalo calf convey?
Chief Looking Horse and other tribal leaders see the birth as a message from the natural world. “Mother Earth is sick and has a fever,” Looking Horse said. “This is the fulfillment of our prophecy.” Conservationist Devin Old Man added: “It’s hard to be a native these days. We need to see the bigger picture.”

What efforts are being made to protect and honor the wild buffalo?
The Buffalo Field Campaign, a conservation group, works with tribes to protect and honor wild buffalo. Mike Mease, co-founder of the group, stressed the importance of preserving Yellowstone’s remaining buffalo population. “These are the last remains of the 30 to 60 million people who once lived on the continent,” he said.

How did people react to the birth of the little white buffalo?
Photographer Jordan Creech, who was among the first to capture images of the white calf, described the experience as unreal. “I know how important it is to indigenous people,” he said. Chief Looking Horse expressed a mixture of fear and concern, noting that the birth of the calf could signify a need for healing in the world.

(With contribution from agencies)