Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Montague, Buffaloland Park offers a unique and enchanting wildlife experience. Open seven days a week, this park, located at Milltown Cross on Route 4, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and animal lovers alike. The park's main attraction is its herd of 43 majestic buffaloes, roaming freely in a 100-acre enclosure. Visitors can explore the grassy paths leading to a wooden deck, where informative display pedestals provide fascinating insights into the life and history of these magnificent creatures.
The American buffalo, a massive horned woolly ruminant native to North America, is a descendant of the great Pleistocene giants. Buffaloland Park's buffalo history dates back to 1973, when the Province of Alberta gifted the Province of Prince Edward Island a herd of prairie buffaloes to commemorate the Island’s centennial celebrations. This original herd of 15 buffaloes, comprising 7 males and 8 females, traveled over 5,000KM from Edmonton to PEI, marking the beginning of the province's only buffalo herd.
Buffaloland Park is not just about observing wildlife; it's about creating lasting memories and educational experiences. In 2014, the UPEI Tour of Buffaloland Park was organized, offering students a unique opportunity to connect with these animals. The park also introduced the Buffalo Feeding Activity in 2015, allowing visitors to learn about buffalo behavior and their interactions with caretakers. This activity has been particularly exciting for children and enlightening for adults.
In the spring of 2018, Buffaloland Park experienced a baby boom, with the buffalo population increasing by five. Visitors have the rare opportunity to observe the special bond between mother buffaloes and their calves, a testament to the park's commitment to providing a natural and nurturing environment for these animals.
While Buffaloland Park is primarily known for its buffalo herd, it's part of a larger network of sanctuaries under Moonlight PEI Sanctuaries. This includes the Horse Sanctuary at 69 Mitchell Road in Primrose, PE, home to 72 horses, and the Cattle Sanctuary at 2164 Seven Mile Road, Cardigan, PE, accommodating over 100 cattle. These sanctuaries play a crucial role in animal welfare and conservation, offering a peaceful and protected environment for these animals.
Buffaloland Park is more than just a park; it's a journey into the heart of nature, where the majesty of wildlife can be appreciated in its natural habitat. Whether you're a local resident or a tourist visiting Canada, this park offers a unique and unforgettable experience that connects you with the wonders of the natural world. So, pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and get ready to explore the wonders of Buffaloland Park in Montague, Canada!