This national park uses helicopters for bison round-up duty
This week, conservationists began their annual bison capture operation in Theodore Roosevelt National Park in western North Dakota. However, the corral does not rely on a team of mounted thieves. Organizers will round up the estimated 700 bison this year using more modern technology: a helicopter.
A buffalo roundup like this is not for sport. This is integral to maintaining larger herd health and appropriate population size on federally protected lands. Before last year’s multi-day project, park experts explained that the proactive approach allows officials to minimize ecological pressure while promoting genetic diversity among animals. The gathering is timed to follow the bison’s long grazing season, when they are at their healthiest. Rounding up in the fall also takes advantage of the generally cooler temperatures to reduce heat-related stress and strain for the animals.
As strange as it may seem, arguing from inside a helicopter also offers its own unique benefits. Theodore Roosevelt National Park is located in the South Dakota Badlands, a region typically marked by steep slopes, deep ravines, and winding ravines. Flying above this beautiful but challenging terrain provides a clearer line of sight to monitor bison movements and better direct their flow toward the corral facilities. Distance from animals also greatly reduces the risk of injury to park rangers or bison. These large mammals easily reach more than six and a half feet in height and weigh up to 2,800 pounds.
Once housed in their corrals, resident veterinarians will evaluate the hundreds of bison based on their overall health, genetic makeup, and demographics like age and biological sex. These are then sorted accordingly and either released into the park or donated to tribal lands. This year, Theodore Roosevelt State Park plans to send about 400 bison to tribal nations. The donations are part of an ongoing effort to strengthen Indigenous community and cultural connections while diversifying local wildlife and enhancing the surrounding landscape.
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