Fifty-five animals on auction block this year

In an effort to preserve a small bit of the past, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) maintains small herds of buffalo in the state. As these herds grow, the agency auctions surplus animals that cannot be supported by available habitat on refuges near Garden City and McPherson. People from all over Kansas and surrounding states buy buffalo at annual auctions.

This year, the auction will be Nov. 19 beginning at 11 a.m. at the Maxwell Wildlife Area corrals, 6 miles north and 1 ¼ miles west of Canton. Fifty-five buffalo will be offered, including seven two-year-old bulls, six yearling bulls, five cows, 30 calves, and seven yearling heifers.

Those interested in purchasing buffalo must bring cash or a personal check with a notarized authorization letter from the issuing bank. Buffalo more than one year old will be brucellosis and tuberculosis tested and come with a health certificate. Heifer calves will be vaccinated for brucellosis and certificates will be issued.

Buyers must pick up buffalo the day of the sale or make arrangements with the refuge manager prior to the sale. Stock racks and trailers should be covered or lined because buffalo travel better in darkened areas.

For more information on the auction, contact the KDWP Region 4 Office, 316-683-8069, or Maxwell Wildlife Area, 620-628-4592.

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