How to Go Where the Buffalo Roam on Catalina Island
Buffalo have roamed freely on Catalina Island since 1924, when a movie company brought a herd of 14 across from the mainland to film the movie, "The Vanishing American." The buffalo were left on the island, and today, the Catalina Conservancy carefully manages the herd to maintain a healthy population of 200 to 250 animals. Catalina is the only place in southern California where wild buffalo roam. By planning ahead and taking the proper precautions, you can get a passing view or be up close and personal with these symbols of the Old West .
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Take the Skyline Drive Tour to explore the interior of the island. This tour is designed to introduce visitors to all the spectacular natural beauty of the island. Travel in a comfortable air-conditioned bus to see the buffalo and other flora and fauna of the island. On this tour you will have to be content with just a glimpse of these big animals. You can take pictures out the window, but you won't get to stop for a closer view. See the Resources section for tour details and reservations.
-
2
If a passing glimpse is not enough for you, join the Buffalo Safari for a closer look. This tour allows you to take pictures and observe buffalo at ground level. It gives you more than a chance encounter with the buffalo, but you're still restricted to the stops and timing of the tour. In addition to the buffalo stops, this tour takes you to the native plant nursery and the Bald Eagle Sanctuary. See the Resources section for tour information.
-
-
3
Get a hiking permit for the best and closest view of the buffalo. There are many trails through the backcountry. You may see buffalo on the hillsides, in the canyons or even on secluded beaches. You'll need a hiking permit to take these day hikes. Call (310) 510-1888, ex. 223 for the permit and information. Check in at the ranger station before starting your hike. The ranger will give you a list of do's and don'ts for your hike. Use common sense when hiking in buffalo country. It's against the law to harass them, and you don't want to corner them or get in their way if they decide to leave the area. Although there isn't a record of any hiker injuries from buffalo on the island, rangers warn hikers to be especially careful not to get between a cow buffalo and her calf during calving season (April and May). Buffalo aren't aggressive, but they can be skittish during this time. Take plenty of water on your hike, and don't forget a camera.
-
1
