Red Dogs Of Spring

Bison calves, called “red dogs” for the color of their fur as newborns, are born at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge in late April through May. As of May 10 this year the count was 29 new bison, with more calves on the way. The Arsenal herd of more than 200 will usually produce between 40 to 50 newborns a year. “Like other hooved animals, bison calves are on their feet quickly — think a couple minutes,” says spokeswoman Sarah Metzer. “If healthy and fully developed, they are running around within a couple hours.” The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is just six miles north of Park Hill. Photo by Reid Neureiter