During the turbulent 19th century in America, Native American tribes ruled the land, white settlers began their ‘invasion’, and tens of millions of Bison roamed freely. The latter became an iconic symbol of this era.
Bison are so steeped in American history that they’re often the main characters of American Western art and literature.
However, as significant as they are, their population went from plentiful to nearly 1000 during the 20th century. Thankfully, contrary to many animal populations, their presence is growing.
Cultural Significance to Native Americans

Native Americans considered Bison as sacred animals. They provided much-needed food and resources, from utensils such as spoons, and cups made from horns to winter coats made from the skin. Additionally, they provided extensive support and capabilities for trade, medicinal, and spiritual purposes.
Decimation by Settlers

The settlers knew how much they relied on Bison, and in an attempt to overrule, began slaughtering them by the masses. They believed it to be their Achilles heel, and many would argue they thought right. Headed by “Buffalo Bill” (William Cody), it’s reported that between 1871 and 1872, 5,000 were being killed daily, and by 1899, their population had shrunk by 99.9%. In 1884, there were 325 wild Bison left.
Current Population

During the early 19th century, 30 million American Bison roamed freely across North America. Currently, their population is approximately 500,000. Although this figure is meager compared to their heyday, it signifies a resurgence among a mammal that faced the depths of elimination.
Conservation Efforts

Having gone from a celebrated and abundant animal nestled in the plains of America to having a target on their back, they’ve experienced society’s extreme highs and lows. Fortunately, they’re back in the good books. Thanks to multiple conservation acts in the early 2000s, and most notably, President Obama’s National Bison Legacy Act in 2016, which established them as the national mammal of America, they’re on the rise.
Physical Characteristics of American Bison

Otherwise known as a buffalo, the American Bison is mighty in stature. Their weight varies between 701 to 2,205 pounds, making them the largest mammal in North America; the heaviest wild Bison weighed a jaw-dropping 2,800 pounds.
Sensory Abilities

While their dark eyes blend into its brown fur coat, Bison’s are equipped with tremendous eyesight, hearing, and smell, allowing them to sense predators before they arrive on the scene. Another distinctive skill is their ability to cross rivers and streams when needed.
Diet and Behavior

Although they look like fierce beasts, they aren’t natural hunters. Their diet consists of grasses, weeds, and leafy plants. Having evolved from the barren plains of America, their digestive system is another remarkable attribute, allowing them to extract nutrients from rugged and deserted grasses.
Herd Dynamics of American Bison

The size of their herds can range from dozens to hundreds, while back in the 18th century, they could reach tens of thousands. Traditionally, males travel in small groups or alone, while females and their young meander together.
Impact on the Environment

Known as “ecosystem engineers,” these remarkable creatures have a profoundly positive impact on the environment. Their herbivorous nature is amplified by their widespread dispersal of seedlings as they roam, contributing to biodiversity, vegetation, and the well-being of various animal species.
American Bison: Range and Movement

The American Bison, renowned for its vast and untamed roaming, possesses an impressive range of movement. These magnificent creatures can cover extensive distances, searching for food and suitable habitats. While their historical range was immense, modern Bison populations are confined to protected areas and reserves.
Climate Change

Climate change alters ecosystems, impacting food availability and habitat suitability for Bison. Adapting to changing environmental conditions and ensuring Bison can thrive in a shifting landscape is an ongoing concern.
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