ROSEMOUNT, Minn. — In the past week, Dakota County's bison herd welcomed two new calves at the Spring Lake Park Reserve.
To help the bison acclimate, the bison grazed a portion away from the public. But last week, the herd was introduced to the prairie portion of the park.
"I drove by and wanted to see if they were out," said Tracy Lilja, who lives nearby in Hastings. "It's close by, it's so neat!"
Last Friday, the herd birthed its first calf. Just 24 hours later, another calf was born.
"Two two-year-olds gave birth, and it totally took us by surprise," said Tom Lewanski, the Dakota County's Natural Resource Manager.
Lewanski said they were watching the lead cow, suspecting that she may have been delivered pregnant.
He said it was a happy surprise when two different cows gave birth.
"I received a call saying one of the bison was giving birth," said Lewanski. "I came out to look. And about 20 minutes later, she did give birth. There was a small group along the road watching them, a young family there. I could tell that they really enjoyed being there."
Lewanski said it's possible the herd can grow even larger in the coming months.
The public is welcome to visit Spring Lake Park Reserve in Rosemont to catch a glimpse near the Fahey Avenue Trailhead by the archery range.
They are also invited to attend a public welcoming event on June 7 from 4-6 p.m. at the reserve.