This Hidden Sanctuary In Utah Is Home To One Of The Largest Herds Of Bison In America

When you think of a huge herd of bison, you probably think of Yellowstone, which has the largest herd in America. More than 3,500 animals live in that park, and 1,600 or so make up the second-largest herd at Custer State Park in South Dakota. Utah is home to the third (and fourth) largest bison herds. If you've never seen the bison who called Utah home, it might be time you did.

Antelope Island State Park covers 42 square miles and is home to a surprisingly large number of animals, including antelope, mule deer, bighorn sheep, and bison.

In fact, though the island is named after its large herd of antelope, it's the bison that people look for when they visit.

Back in 1893, 12 bison were introduced to the island; today, between 550 and 700 animals make up the herd.

The bison who live here are Prairie Bison, but the herd is genetically unique and considered to be one of the purest herds in the country. Bison often cross-breed with cattle, and it's believed that most privately-owned bison herds are genetically-mixed with cattle. The herd at Antelope Island is thought to be one of the few herds in the country that's not contaminated with cattle DNA.

Your best bet of finding bison during your visit is near the Fielding Garr Ranch on the east side of the island, though members of the herd do wander far and wide throughout the island.

Every year in late October, the buffalo roundup provides an opportunity to see the herd all together.

Volunteer cowboys round up the bison, then they're kept in holding pens for a couple days while herd members are examined and vaccinated.

Between 150 and 200 calves are born on the island every year. Because it's thought that the island can only support around 700 bison, excess numbers are sold to ranches or are sent to other herds across the country.

Utah is also home to the fourth-largest bison herd in America. The herd found in Utah's Henry Mountains includes 250-400 animals.

Check out this video of the Bison Roundup that was posted on YouTube by RobsWildlife:

Have you seen the Antelope Island or Henry Mountains bison herds?