Adaptations
A shoulder hump anchors muscles that support the head, while dense front-body fur provides winter protection. A broad muzzle gathers grasses, and cloven hooves handle firm prairie and uneven ground.
Behavior and daily life
Bison form fluid herds whose size changes with season, habitat, and breeding. During the rut, bulls compete and display, while calves remain close to cows and can run soon after birth.
Conservation
Current profile labelNear Threatened
The species survived a severe nineteenth-century collapse, but many modern herds are small, fenced, or managed. Conservation priorities include genetic diversity, disease management, habitat, and Indigenous-led restoration.
Bison can use their massive heads to sweep snow aside and reach winter forage.
