The Dakota County bison herd at Spring Lake Park Reserve numbers 15 after a calf was born May 1. Photo submitted

Baby bison born at Spring Lake Park Reserve
Dakota County’s bison herd just got larger.
A calf was born May 1 at the Spring Lake Park Reserve Bison Prairie in Hastings. The calf’s mother arrived pregnant last November after being transported from Minneopa State Park.
The calf brings the herd’s size to 15, where it will remain for the year since the herd does not include a mature bull. Visit the Dakota County Parks website to learn more about the herd, including its current location.
When visiting the prairie, please remember:
▪ If the bison are near the fence and look stressed, please move to a different area for the health of the bison and new calf.
▪ Bison get more protective during calving months, especially when they have a calf in the herd.
▪ Visitors should keep dogs leashed and follow the posted signage.
▪ Calves may sleep at a distance from their mother; they have not been left behind or abandoned.
▪ When not nursing or sleeping, bison calves are curious and can be very energetic in their play.