Introducing Sparky, the Bison That Endured a Lightning Strike

During a routine herd inspection in July 2013 at the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge in Iowa, wildlife biologist Karen Viste-Sparkman observed a solitary bull bison. Upon closer examination, she noticed the bull was injured and bleeding, which wasn’t uncommon during the summer mating season when bison bulls often fight. However, further scrutiny revealed that the animal had suffered burns, indicating a more severe incident.

Sparky had been hit by lightning on his

shoulder hump, with a noticeable lump on his hind leg suggesting an exit wound, implying he was lying down during the strike. Losing hair and weight, Sparky’s survival seemed unlikely. The refuge decided to allow nature to run its course, as lightning strikes, though rare, are natural events. Despite the odds, Viste-Sparkman monitored Sparky, who eventually healed, though he walked with a permanent limp.

Karen Viste-Sparkman, USFWS // Flickr, CC BY 2.0

Over two years have passed, and Sparky remains in good health, earning a reputation as an exceptionally resilient survivor. At 11 years old and weighing 1600 pounds, he is leaner than most bison his age but maintains impressive strength. If you find yourself near Des Moines, you can visit Sparky and his herd at the refuge. As for his name, it’s no coincidence—Sparky was named in honor of the lightning strike that nearly claimed his life.