Bison welcomed back to Waterton
Poll
Government policy
Parks Canada welcomed six plains bison from Elk Island National Park to the Waterton Lakes National Park bison paddock on Feb. 19.
Parks Canada was joined by Blackfoot Confederacy elders from Kainai Nation, Piikani Nation and Siksika Nation to welcome the bison (known as Iinnii in Blackfoot) back to the park, blessing the animals and the land in a private, physically-distanced prayer ceremony. A local bison specialist, who is also a Kainai First Nation member, transported the animals to the park with Parks Canada support.
Safe handling and respect for the bison is a top priority during translocation. Parks Canada staff have a wealth of experience and expertise working with wildlife in ways that keep people and animals safe.Â