05/07/2026
Located near the middle of the state (in Babcock, WI), Sandhill Wildlife Area is home to the only state-managed herd of bison in Wisconsin. And recently, one of the bison gave us an unexpected surprise.
Almost 100 years after bison were extirpated from the state (due to increased settlement and unregulated hunting), conservationists Walace and Hazel Grange decided to purchase a large block of property in Wood County and later a small herd of bison. When the Granges retired, they sold their 9,150-acre property, including the bison herd, to the Wisconsin DNR to manage as a wildlife demonstration and education area. Now the herd is used to restore oak barrens while benefiting one of the largest populations of the federally endangered Karner blue butterfly.
In June 2025, a unique bison calf was born to the Sandhill herd. Although it was born a light reddish brown, it molted its calf coat a few months later, leaving behind a rare white color. This color variant is quite unusual for bison and was a surprise to staff.
The best part is that you can come see it! Sandhill has a 14-mile auto tour route, called the Trumpeter Trail, that runs through the property. The route takes roughly one hour to drive, depending on how many stops you wish to take along the way. Along the auto route, you’ll see several habitats including wetlands, oak barens, young forest and mature timber stands. The bison byway is a spur of the Trumpeter Trail that allows visitors to see more of the bison enclosure. Sandhill also provides includes hiking trails, picnic areas and two observation towers.
On May 9, the Friends of Sandhill are also holding an open house from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. to learn more about the property and activities going on there. Best yet, the theme for this year is bison!
For more information on Sandhill Wildlife Area, please visit Sandhill’s website at:
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Lands/WildlifeAreas/sandhill
