9 Bison Facts That Will Amaze You

Resembling yaks, bison are the largest mammals in North America and remarkable creatures that once dominated the expansive grasslands in colossal herds. Historical estimates suggest that their numbers reached an awe-inspiring 30 to 60 million before the mid-1800s. 

Despite facing near-extinction due to habitat loss during the westward expansion of human civilization, the bison persevered. Today, it is estimated that up to 400,000 bison exist worldwide, a testament to their resilience. If you are interested in exploring more about these majestic titans, our meticulously crafted list of facts about bison will provide fascinating insights and help you out.

9 Bison Facts That Will Amaze You

1: Bison Are the Largest Land Mammals in North America

With huge bodies, bison are giant creatures wherein the male bison (bulls) can reach staggering weights of up to 2,000 pounds with a height of six feet. In contrast, female bison (cows) are comparatively lighter, weighing up to 1,000 pounds and typically standing at heights ranging between four to five feet. 

Bison calves weigh between 35 and 70 pounds at birth. Despite their small size, these calves possess great resilience and quickly adapt to their environment’s challenges.

2: Bison Have Continuously Lived in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone is unique in the United States as the only place in the lower 48 states where bison have continuously lived since prehistoric times. Yellowstone’s bison are direct descendants of the early bison that roamed America’s grasslands. According to 2021 data, the population of bison in Yellowstone was recorded at 5,450, making it the largest bison population in public parks.

3: Bison Are Nearsighted

Despite their imposing presence, bison are surprisingly nearsighted. They can only clearly see objects that are close to them. Their eyes are set wide apart, giving them an extensive field of view and excellent peripheral vision. 

Besides being nearsighted, bison are highly perceptive and can detect the presence of animals or people nearby. Their adept auditory and olfactory abilities help them remain aware of potential threats or changes in their environment, making them vigilant.

4: Bison Typically Live Around 15 to 20 Years in the Wild

Bison exhibit remarkable resilience, capable of surviving for many years despite the challenges they face in the wild. While their average lifespan is 15 to 20 years, some bison have been documented to live as long as 28 years. 

However, not all bison reach such advanced ages. Up to 40% of bison calves do not survive their first year, a period when they are particularly vulnerable to the harsh realities of the wilderness.

5: Bison Can Run at Speeds up to 35 Miles Per Hour (56 km/h)

Despite their huge size, bison are surprisingly athletic. These grassland giants can reach impressive speeds of nearly 35 miles per hour, which allows them to swiftly escape predators or navigate their expansive habitats. This athleticism further aids in surviving the challenging terrains, from open plains to dense forests. 

6: Bison Are Agile and Can Jump Fences up to 6 Feet

One of the most fascinating facts about bison is that it can leap vertically up to 6 feet, which is approximately the height of an average man. Bison can reach such incredible heights when they have sufficient open space to gather momentum. However, they can still make smaller jumps, even in confined areas. 

Some ranchers report that even while moving at a slow trot, bison can effortlessly clear low-lying fences. While airborne, bison not only demonstrate impressive vertical leaps but also exhibit great agility. They can twist and pivot mid-air, with some bison capable of executing 180-degree spins. 

7: Bison’s Mood Can Be Judged by Its Tail

Observing a bison’s tail can provide valuable insights into its mood. When a bison’s tail hangs down loosely and sways, it indicates calmness and ease with its surroundings, posing little to no threat. However, if the bison’s tail suddenly stands erect, it is a warning sign of aggression, signaling alertness and readiness to defend itself or its territory.

8: Bison Primarily Eat Grasses, Weeds, and Leafy Plants

These bison behemoths are herbivores, with their primary diet consisting of grasses and various plant materials. Approximately 93% of their nutritional intake comes from grazing vegetation, predominantly meadows and prairie grasses. Despite their immense size, they primarily sustain themselves on these sources of vegetation.

In addition to their primary grasses, bison also consume leafy vegetation known as forbs, comprising approximately 5% of their overall dietary intake. 

9: Male Bison Can Grow Over 6 Feet Tall

From birth to maturity, bison undergo substantial growth and development. Calves are born comparatively small and eventually increase in size as they age. Male bison, known as bulls, typically outsize their female counterparts (cows). 

Bulls can reach impressive heights of up to six feet at the shoulders, towering over cows, which stand at approximately four to five feet tall at the shoulders. This considerable height difference reflects the sexual dimorphism commonly observed in bison species.

Conclusion

Bison, massive herbivores native to North America, exhibit remarkable traits and behaviors that underscore their resilience, adaptability, and unique ecological role. From their impressive athleticism to their selective grazing habits, bison have developed specialized strategies for survival in diverse wild environments.

Exploring the aforementioned facts about bison, ranging from their dietary preferences to their sheer size offers valuable insights into the intricate dynamics within bison populations and their ecosystems.

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