American bison are often called buffalo, but they're actually not true buffalo! They are a unique species native to North America.
These massive animals can weigh up to 2,000 pounds, making them one of the largest land mammals in North America!
American bison have thick, shaggy coats that keep them warm in cold weather. In the spring, they shed their winter fur to stay cool in the summer.
Bison are herbivores, which means they eat only plants. Their favorite foods include grasses, shrubs, and even some types of bark.
A group of bison is called a herd, and they often travel together to find food and protect each other from predators.
Bison can run surprisingly fast, reaching speeds of up to 35 miles per hour! This helps them escape from threats in the wild.
The American bison is a symbol of strength and endurance, and it played an important role in the lives of Native American tribes for thousands of years.
Bison have sharp, curved horns that can grow up to two feet long. They use them to defend themselves from predators and during fights with other bison.
Female bison are called cows, males are called bulls, and baby bison are known as calves. Calves are born with a reddish coat and are able to stand and run shortly after birth.
American bison were once nearly extinct due to overhunting, but conservation efforts have helped their populations recover, and they can now be found in national parks and reserves across the United States.
