Contributed by Sally Ontiveros
Last month The Musk Ox Farm in Palmer welcomed a new member into their herd of over 80 musk oxen. A baby bull named Uno was transferred to the farm from colleagues over at The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC) down in Portage. The Musk Ox Farm and the AWCC have had a longstanding relationship being two of only four musk ox facilities in the state, right alongside the University of Alaska Fairbanks’ Large Animal Research Station (UAFLARS) and the Anchorage Zoo. The curator of the AWCC thought that Uno would not only thrive among a healthy captive herd, but that he could also be a great addition when he comes of age to breed. She had this to say, “We’re excited to place Uno with [The Musk Ox Farm] for a nice long life, and to help the genetic diversity of [the] herd. Not to mention, it’s always wonderful to work with fellow faculties involved in animal care and welfare!”
Uno was born May 13th of this year to two of their resident musk oxen. The herd manager of The Musk Ox Farm, Jamie, has been extra patient helping Uno feel comfortable and safe in his new home. He has become quite the explorer, and now feels right at home roaming around his pen. Even though Uno had a late start comparatively to our calves, Jamie believes that he is right on track to becoming a well socialized member of the herd. She reports that he has been steadily gaining weight and has already grown a new coat of qiviut in preparation for his first winter. Uno spent his first weeks on the farm in quarantine, and once cleared, moved in with the “Golden Girls”, the resident group of female musk oxen ages 18-27. He was even spotted cuddling with the oldest musk ox in the herd, Georgeann, who is 27 years old. Recently, Uno was moved into a different pen with two adult males and two yearling bulls, Loki and Trebek. This was a huge first step for him as he finds his place in the herd and learns from his new pen mates how to be a big muskie man. Uno is currently accepting visitors, and if you would like to come meet this little man, you can book a tour today at www.muskoxfarm.org/farmtours. The farm is open through the winter and masks are required for all visitors. Be sure to check the website and Facebook page for the most up-to-date information on winter hours and holiday closures. There are also some great events happening this month at the farm, so be sure to check out the November event schedule below!
November events:
<< “Luna’s Big OXcident” Book Signing & Reading with author P.T. Custard Nov. 26 12-4pm >>
<< SALE: Shop Small Saturday 30% OFF all MODC qiviut products Nov. 27 9am-5pm & Nov. 28 11am-5pm>>
<< SALE: Cyber Monday 25% OFF all MODC qiviut products Nov. 29 11am-5pm>>
