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American Bison

The American bison (Bison bison), also called the American buffalo or simply buffalo (not to be confused with true buffalo) is native to North America. It is one of two extant species of bison, alongside the European bison. Once roaming in vast herds, the species nearly became extinct by a combination of commercial hunting and slaughter in the 19th century and introduction of bovine diseases from domestic cattle. With a population of 60 million in the late 18th century, the species was culled down to just 541 animals by 1889 as part of the subjugation of the Native Americans, because the American bison was a major resource for their traditional way of life (food source, hides for clothing and shelter, and horns and bones for tools). Recovery efforts expanded in the mid-20th century, with a resurgence to roughly 31,000 wild bison as of March 2019. A bison has a shaggy, long, dark-brown winter coat, and a lighter-weight, lighter-brown summer coat. Male bison are significantly larger and heavier than females. Heights at withers in the species can reach up to 186 to 201 cm (6 ft 1 in to 6 ft 7 in). Typically weights can range from 318 to 1,179 kg (701 to 2,599 lb). (Photo by George Wilson/NurPhoto)

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