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Bison on the Prairie

The Elk Arrive

In 1914, 14 Rocky Mountain elk from Yellowstone National Park and 13 pronghorn antelope from Alberta, Canada were added to complete the prairie scene.

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Herd of Elk in a Corral

Learning to Manage Wildlife

Because the practice of raising wild game animals under semi-natural conditions was relatively new, A.P. Chambers, the first warden of the preserve, experienced many challenges creating healthy, wild herds.

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Truck Used to Ship Animals

Growing Herds

The bison and elk survived with very little trouble. They quickly adapted to the park area and by 1920, the bison reached a population of 100 and the elk, 200. To keep the herd sizes in balance with the range, managers culled animals by selling them or moving them to other preserves.

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Pronghorn and Kid

Challenges with the Pronghorn

Raising pronghorn antelope was, perhaps, A.P Chambers greatest challenge. These curious little animals seemed to die for no apparent reason.