Bison

Bison on plaque Bedeilhac grottoe Ariege

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Bison skeleton taxidermy mount

Euroameribison

Muybridge Buffalo galloping

Buffalo charges Elk near old faithful - panoramio

Bison are large, even-toed ungulates in the genus Bos within the subfamily Bovinae. Known for their massive size, shaggy hair, and distinctive hump, bison are an iconic symbol of the Great Plains of North America. There are two species commonly recognized: the American Bison (Bison bison), which is native to North and Central America, and the European Bison (Bison bonasus), or wisent, found in Europe. Despite their common name, bison are only distantly related to true buffalo, such as the African Buffalo (Syncerus caffer) and the Asian Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis).

Description

Bison are among the largest living terrestrial animals in their respective habitats. They have a distinctive muscular hump on their shoulders, heavy brown fur, and a broad head with small, curved horns. Bison are herbivores, grazing on grasses and sedges in prairies and forests. They have a complex social structure, forming herds that can consist of hundreds of individuals, although the American Bison's herds are typically smaller today than in the past due to hunting and habitat loss.

Habitat and Distribution

The American Bison historically roamed across much of North America, from the eastern United States and Canada to the Rockies, and as far south as Mexico. However, their numbers were drastically reduced in the 19th century due to hunting and the expansion of agriculture, leading to near extinction. Conservation efforts in the 20th century have helped their numbers recover, and they are now primarily found in protected areas and reserves.

The European Bison faced a similar fate, being hunted to extinction in the wild by the early 20th century. Through conservation and breeding programs, they have been reintroduced to the wild in several European countries, including Poland, Belarus, and Russia.

Conservation

Both species of bison are now subject to conservation efforts to preserve their populations and habitats. The American Bison is classified as Near Threatened, while the European Bison is considered Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Conservation strategies include habitat restoration, protected areas, and breeding programs to increase genetic diversity and population size.

Cultural Significance

Bison have a profound cultural significance, especially to many Indigenous peoples in North America. They have been an integral part of their culture, spirituality, and economy, providing food, clothing, and materials for shelter and tools. The bison is also a symbol of the American West and is featured on the seal of several U.S. states, including Wyoming and Kansas.

See Also

• Wildlife conservation
• Endangered species
• Prairie
• Grassland ecosystems