Bison: The Majestic Beast of the Plains and Beyond

November 7 is National Bison Day. Celebrate this beautiful animal by learning more about it.

November 05, 2020

By: Madeleine Veronis and Leah Weber

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Photo By: Mike Hill

Photo By: Stan Tekiela Author / Naturalist / Wildlife Photographer

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Photo By: Brigitte Merle

Photo By: Ruben Earth

Photo By: Bill_Vorasate

Photo By: Marcia Straub

Bison are the largest mammal in North America.

Speed Zone! Bison may be massive creatures, but they're also fast with ability to run up to 35 miles per hour. Plus, they're surprisingly agile. Bison can spin around quickly, scale, and jump high fences, and are strong swimmers.

Yellowstone National Park has been home to bison for thousands of years - it is the only place in the U.S. where bison have continuously lived since prehistoric times.

Pass the weed please - no, not that kind. Bison primarily eat weeds, grass, and leafy plants. They typically forage for nine to eleven hours a day.

What’s the difference between bison and buffalo? While bison and buffalo are used interchangeably, it's scientifically bison in North America. Historians believe the term "buffalo" came from the French word for beef, "boeuf."

A baby bison is called a "red dog." Bison calves tend to be orange-red in color, earning them the nickname "red dogs."

A tell-tail sign. When the bison's tail hangs down and swishes naturally, it's usually calm. If the tail is standing up, watch out... it's feeling aggressive and may be ready to charge