IVF 1
Department: Natural Resources
A 10-month-old calf known as IVF 1 is the first bison calf conceived using in vitro fertilization, or IVF, to the Laramie Foothills Bison Conservation Herd that lives in the Larimer County Red Mountain Open Space. IVF 1 is also the first bison calf in the world to be conceived using reproductive material from animals removed from Yellowstone National Park.
"I've always said that Larimer County employees are the best in the world, and IVF 1 exemplifies that tradition of exceptionalism," said Commissioner Steve Johnson. The former veterinarian added, "IVF 1 is absolutely deserving of the employee of the month award. After all, she accomplished more for science before she was even born than the majority of bison throughout history!"
Using any type of reproductive technology can be challenging. The IVF process for bison is similar to that for humans, however, the success rate of IVF in bison is not known. Jennifer Barfield, a reproductive physiologist with the CSU Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory, was beaming with pride as she described the landmark moment. “I didn’t have a lot of hopes for this particular embryo, because she didn’t look that great,” she said. “But she defied the odds and survived.”
Great work, IVF 1!
Learn more about IVF 1 and the Laramie Foothills Bison Conservation Heard.
Nominated by Commissioner Steve Johnson
