Wildlife Profile: Bison

by
posted on December 30, 2013
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
bison.jpg

Photo Courtesy of Keith Weller

There’s no doubt that you recognized this animal immediately: With its tremendous size, massive, low-hanging head and shaggy coat, this symbol of the American Plains from days gone by is unmistakable. But did you know that you probably called it the wrong name? It’s true: The animal that most people call a “buffalo” is properly known as the American bison. What’s the difference? Bison and buffalo are both members of the family Bovidae, which also includes yaks and domestic cows, so they are related. However, true buffaloes (like the Cape buffalo) are only found in Africa and Asia, and their heads are considerably smaller than those of the bison.

The story of the American bison is a sad one. Before the arrival of European settlers, these huge animals—standing up to 6½ feet at the shoulder and weighing over a ton—had very few natural predators, and nearly unlimited resources. Although nobody knows for sure how many bison there were prior to the 1850s, estimates put the figure between 30 and 60 million animals. Bison herds could stretch from horizon to horizon. Native Americans did hunt them, but there were so many bison and so few humans that the bison population didn’t suffer.

That all changed in the mid-19th century, in the days before scientifically managed hunting, hunting permits and bag limits. As American settlers moved west, they hunted the buffalo nearly to extinction. By 1885, government estimates put the total bison population at 200.

These days, bison populations have rebounded somewhat. It’s estimated that about 15,000 bison now range as part of truly wild populations. It’s even possible to hunt wild bison again; Utah, Alaska and Montana all offer a limited number of tags.

FAST FACTS:
• Bison are raised commercially for their meat, which is very high in protein, low in fat and tastes a great deal like beef.
• Despite their appearance, bison are nimble jumpers. They’ve been known to leap over each other’s backs when startled!
• The bison is the largest land mammal in North America.

Latest

Ccw Minute Choose Gun Belt Lede
Ccw Minute Choose Gun Belt Lede

CCW Minute: How to Choose the Right Gun Belt

Gun belts are the unsung heroes of concealed carry. Here's how to pick the one right for you ... in under a minute!

Rising Shooting Stars: Sydney Beiswanger

“I plan to inspire juniors to get into this sport, and my goal is to be a role model for them,” Sydney said.

Throwback Thursday: The Revolutionary Kentucky Long Rifle

From its humble beginnings in the late 18th century to its enduring legacy in popular culture, the Kentucky Long Rifle stands as a testament to American ingenuity and craftsmanship.

Watch: NRA CEO Hamlin & President Bachenberg Hold Our First Virtual Townhall

"When President Bachenberg and I were elected, we pledged to rebuild the trust of our members, donors, and industry."

Reviewed: Daniel Defense 9mm Pistol-Caliber Carbine

Nimble, adjustable, accurate, and nicely outfitted, this PCC impresses.

From Pond to Pan, Frog-Hunting is Great Summer Fun

Get your gig, airgun, or .22 rifle and head for the water on a summer night and come away with some great eating!

Interests



Get the best of NRA Family delivered to your inbox.