American bison (buffalo) at the Wildlife Loop Road - A herd of 1,300 bison roam freely throughout the park, often stopping traffic along the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road. The herd is one of the largest public-owned herds in the world. Bison can weigh as much as 2,000 pounds. Historically, the animal played an essential role in the lives of the Lakota (Sioux), who relied on the "tatanka" for food, clothing and shelter. |
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And much later, the two RV Gypsies came across a lone buffalo, miles from the herd, just standing there, leaning against a tree and not moving. |
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Begging Burros is a name used to refer to the donkeys in Custer State Park. For many years, these donkeys have earned this nickname as they approach various passing cars through the park begging for food. After earning this reputation, the burros have become famous for garnering the attention of most travelers through the park inside and outside of cars. Many people bring food to the park specifically for the purpose of feeding these animals. The Begging Burros inhabit one area of the park upon a hill where approximately 50 of them try to obtain any food they can. Custer State Park's roadway is blocked off by these animals to the point where a driver needs to beep his or her horn to pass and continue through the park. The park's website tells visitors what kind of food they may feed the donkeys. |
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Lee shared the carrots and bread so that the nearby children could experience feeding the wild donkey that came right up to Lee. The donkey ate out of Lee's hand, but did not like it if the children tried to touch or pet him. |
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IS THAT ALL? |
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Continue viewing the two RV Gypsies' adventures in South Dakota in the order they occurred - 
If you have already seen all of the 7 sites in South Dakota, please continue on to