Coming of spring could slow killing of Yellowstone bison

BILLINGS, Mont. — The approach of spring could slow the slaughter of bison leaving Yellowstone National Park.

Officials said Wednesday they would begin holding some of the animals for release back into the park when the snow melts.

A record 1,100 bison have been killed so far this winter, primarily through a controversial disease-management program meant to prevent bison from coming into contact with surrounding cattle ranches.

The bison were captured as they left the park in search of food at lower elevations.

In the middle of winter, captured animals typically are not returned to the park because there is nothing there for them to eat.

With spring weather just a few weeks away, most bison captured on the north side of the park will now be held for release, said Yellowstone spokesman Al Nash.

Animals captured on the west side of the park, where there has been more snow, will continue to be slaughtered.

Calves captured on the north side also will be eligible for a disease-research program that had been suspended when the government could not find land to keep them on. Those calves will be tested for brucellosis and put into the program if the results are negative. Animals testing positive will be slaughtered.

About 40 calves are now being held, Nash said.

Brucellosis can cause pregnant cattle, bison and elk to abort their young.