Michigan’s morning commute gets a bison-sized surprise

Some folks dream of a Yellowstone vacation to get up close with bison. Others just need to take a casual drive down US 31 in Grand Traverse County, Michigan, where the bison come to you.

Recently, a handful of these hefty escape artists from Oleson’s Buffalo Farm decided to trade pasture grass for pavement, lumbering down the highway like they had errands to run. The Grand Traverse Sheriff’s Office and Michigan State Police quickly responded — not to wrangle the bison (good luck with that), but to direct traffic around the prehistoric parade.

Now, let’s be clear: Keeping bison fenced in is no easy feat. While cows are more frequently spotted in roadside ditches or giving you that “I dare you to honk” stare from the middle of the road, bison are different. They don’t often escape — but when they do, it’s with all the majestic chaos of a wrecking ball in a meadow.

According to UpNorthLive, Lt. Jon Morgan with the Grand Traverse Sheriff’s Office, a bison “herder” was called to help put them back into the Oleson’s pasture. 

Bison fences are usually built tall, reinforced, and electrified … because unlike cows, bison can jump, run 35 mph, and pack the punch of furry tanks with a taste for freedom.

Meanwhile, tourists out west try to pet these creatures despite all common sense (and warning signs), but here in Michigan, they’re just trying to cross the road.

So next time you’re cruising US 31 and see a massive shaggy shape in your lane, don’t panic — it might just be another breakout at Oleson’s. Slow down, stay in your car, and remember: fences are suggestions, but bison have opinions.

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