The American bison is the largest land animal in North America and a keystone species of the Great Plains ecosystem. Once numbering 30-60 million individuals, they were nearly driven to extinction by overhunting in the 19th century, with fewer than 1,000 remaining by 1889. Conservation efforts have since recovered populations to around 500,000, though truly wild herds number far fewer. Bison wallowing behavior creates depressions that collect water, forming critical microhabitats for dozens of other species.
About the Bison
Bison bison
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💡 Fun Facts
01
Bison can run at 65 km/h and pivot almost instantly despite weighing up to 900 kg.
02
A bison's hump is composed of muscle supported by long vertebral spines, not fat, and powers the head-plowing motion used to clear snow from winter grazing.
03
Bison were once so numerous on the Great Plains that their migration herds reportedly took days to pass a single point.
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A bison's thick winter coat is so insulating that snow can accumulate on their back without melting.
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Bison are the national mammal of the United States, designated in 2016.
📍 Where to Find This Animal
Habitat Types:
Grasslands & Prairie
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