A rare white buffalo calf, considered sacred by many Native American tribes, has been born in Yellowstone National Park, fulfilling a prophecy of the Lakota Sioux.

The calf was first seen on June 4 in the Lamar Valley by photographer Erin Braateen, who was visiting the park.

Braateen captured photos of the calf among a herd of bison, causing traffic to stop as the herd crossed the road.

Although Yellowstone officials have not confirmed the birth, a naming ceremony will be held by the Lakota Sioux on June 26 at Buffalo Field Campaign headquarters in West Yellowstone.

The birth of a white buffalo is highly significant to Native American tribes, symbolizing that prayers are being answered and fulfilling a sacred prophecy, the Daily Express has reported.

Chief Arvol Looking Horse, spiritual leader of the Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota tribes, called the calf’s birth both a blessing and a warning, urging more efforts to protect the species.

The arrival of the white buffalo follows a harsh winter in 2023, during which over 1,500 bison were slaughtered or transferred to tribes seeking to reclaim control over the animals.

Written by B.C. Begley