Happy Mother’s Day – Where-They-Roam, SODAK.

What is more beautiful than 100’s of baby buffalo dotting the hills of South Dakota on Mother’s Day? Absolutely nothing!

Looking out over the vast grasslands and prairies of where-they-roam, it’s impossible not to notice that nearly every mature female is proudly tending to her calf – a true testament to the strength and vitality of this remarkable species. As the bulls drift off, the contrast sharpens: the mothers and their young remain closely bonded. Watching the calves run, playfully spar, nap, nurse… and repeat, is to us, the finest nature show on earth – one we could happily watch from sunrise to sunset.

In English, these adorable babies are often called “Baby Buffs” or “Lil’ Cinnamons,” but in Lakota culture, they hold deep spiritual significance, and the buffalo calves are known as “red dogs.”

To avoid misrepresenting their meaning to the Lakota people, the following was shared with me by a Lakota Elder and friend:

“The Buffalo is the akicita  – warrior and protector of the sun.

The sun sent him to watch over the people. The Buffalo tipi and the fire inside represent the warmth and protection of the sun. Ate Wi – Father Sun – represents masculine strength. Han Wi is the moon and represents divine feminine power. Grandfather Sky and Grandmother Earth…

Inyan – the rock – is the oldest spirit.

These four (not including Han Wi) are the four most sacred Lakota spirits:

Earth, Rock, Sun, and Sky.”

We’re thrilled to share more of these adventures – experiences that have inspired us, strengthened our faith, and shown us the awe-inspiring beauty of the world around us.

Our hope is that these journeys will inspire and uplift you, and maybe even spark a few adventures of your own!

– Buffalo Hydraulic