Bynum, NC – In a heartfelt recounting at the recent “Sing Me a Story” showcase at the Bynum Front Porch, Wayne Poole shared his unique experiences as a buffalo caretaker at the Museum of Life and Science in Durham, North Carolina. Through anecdotes filled with humor and warmth, Poole detailed his bond with Buffy, a once-timid buffalo who became a cherished companion over the years. His story not only highlights the challenges of animal care but also the profound connections that can form between humans and wildlife.
The Early Days of Animal Care
Wayne Poole began his journey in animal care at the Museum of Life and Science, where he worked with a diverse array of animals, from local barnyard creatures like chickens and ducks to exotic species such as snakes and alligators. “We had more snakes in our snake room than anywhere else in North Carolina,” Poole recalled, proudly mentioning a 17-foot reticulated python among the museum’s inhabitants. His responsibilities included caring for various animals, but it was his relationship with Buffy the buffalo that left an indelible mark on his life.
Meeting Buffy: A Rocky Start
Poole’s initial encounters with Buffy were fraught with challenges. As a young caretaker, he had to navigate the complexities of feeding and caring for a large, powerful animal. “When I first got there, I had to climb up a ladder to pour oats down a PVC pipe into her pen,” he remembered. The process was labor-intensive and required both ingenuity and caution. Over time, Poole and his colleagues refined their methods, eventually transitioning to a more direct approach by placing food in a stainless-steel tin for Buffy to access easily.
Building Trust: A Step-by-Step Approach
The turning point in Poole’s relationship with Buffy came when he decided to take a picture of her. While attempting to focus his camera, he was surprised when Buffy, feeling comfortable enough, licked his toes. “That was the moment I realized how tame she had become,” he said. From then on, Poole adopted a patient approach, taking small steps closer to Buffy during feeding times. Each visit, he would inch nearer, allowing her to grow accustomed to his presence. “It took about two and a half years before I could walk around her freely,” he explained, illustrating the gradual nature of their bond.
The Joys of Companionship
As the years passed, Poole’s affection for Buffy deepened. He began to touch and groom her, a process that not only strengthened their relationship but also provided educational opportunities for museum visitors. “We used her hair in children’s programs,” he noted, reflecting on the practical benefits of their connection. Poole’s dedication to Buffy exemplified the joys and responsibilities of animal care, highlighting the importance of patience and understanding in building trust with wildlife.
The Day of the Great Escape
One of the most memorable moments in Poole’s time with Buffy occurred during an unexpected escape. “I was standing by the pen when I saw her bolt,” he recounted, his voice filled with excitement. As Buffy ran toward him, Poole felt a mix of fear and awe. “I thought, ‘There’s no way I can outrun a buffalo,’” he said, recalling the ground shaking beneath her powerful strides. Fortunately, Buffy made a beeline for her pen, allowing Poole to safely close the gate behind her. “Walking across Murray Avenue, I sang the museum news. Buffy’s back home,” he concluded, encapsulating the relief and joy of the moment.
The Lasting Impact of Animal Care
Wayne Poole’s experiences with Buffy the buffalo serve as a poignant reminder of the bonds that can form between humans and animals. His journey from a tentative caretaker to a trusted companion illustrates the power of patience, empathy, and dedication in animal care.