Double delight at Pašiliai bison reserve as two calves await their names

Two bison calves at Lithuania’s Pašiliai reserve have already formed a small companionship after arriving only a few days apart. The female and male spend time together, play and are gradually adjusting to life with the herd.

Reserve keeper Eugenijus Družas said staff watch closely when a female separates from the herd and disappears into the forest before returning with a calf. Bison pregnancies last about nine months, and births usually occur in May and June. During their first weeks, mothers guard the calves closely, so workers mainly observe the animals and give them peace.

The calves remain near their mothers as they begin exploring. At around three weeks, they start tasting grass. By two months, they begin nibbling branches and shoots, while they may continue drinking their mothers’ milk for up to a year. The two newest residents now run with the herd when they hear the familiar sound of feed arriving in buckets.

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When the female separates from the herd and hides in the forest, we wait excitedly for her to appear with a calf.

Children from different educational institutions will suggest names at a celebration. Names for bison born in Lithuania must start with “Gi,” an international rule that helps trace an animal’s origin, and names cannot be repeated. The reserve’s existing animals include Gira, Gipota, Gipokis, Gipordas, Gilius, Girna, Girnis, Gilminas, Gibradimas, Gitis, Gintas, Gigantas and Giesmė.

Last year, a child named Dovydas proposed Giesmė, and received a gift and certificate after his suggestion won. This year’s selected participants will also receive prizes, surprises and certificates. Animator Pepė Ilgakojinė is expected to entertain the children at the event.

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The calves stay next to each other and play together.