American Bison

Bison bison

The American Bison is a big, strong animal that roams the grasslands. They have thick fur and are known for their large heads and curved horns.

Habitat: Plains and grasslands

Appearance

The American Bison is a large, sturdy mammal with a distinctive shaggy dark brown to black coat, especially on its head and shoulders. It has a prominent hump over its shoulders and short, curved horns, making it visually distinct from other bovine species.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassMammaliaOrderArtiodactylaFamilyBovidaeGenusBison

American Bison

Interesting facts

Baby bison, called 'red dogs', are born with reddish-orange fur!

Bison communicate with grunts, snorts, and even loud roars!

Bison love to rub against trees and rocks to scratch their itchy backs!

Their humped backs are supported by extra-long spines!

Special abilities

American Bison has an incredibly thick, insulating winter coat that helps them survive harsh, freezing temperatures on the open plains.

American Bison can use their massive heads to plow through deep snow, helping them uncover vegetation to eat during winter.

American Bison takes regular dust baths, which helps them remove parasites and loose fur, keeping their skin healthy.

Measurements & details

Length: 210-350 cm
Weight: 300-1000 kg
Lifespan: 15-20 years
Top Speed: 56 km/h
Litter Size: 1
Gestation: 270-285 days

Diet & Feeding

These large herbivores graze on a variety of grasses and plants to fuel their massive bodies.

Primary Foods

grasses
sedges
forbs
willow
aspen bark

Foraging Method

Grazing

Ecological connections

hunts

Gray Wolf

Canis lupus

Wolves often prey on bison calves or sick/elderly adults.

hunts

Grizzly Bear

Ursus arctos

Grizzly bears will also prey on bison, especially calves.

eats

Big Bluestem

Andropogon gerardii

Bison heavily graze on this tall prairie grass species.

eats

Little Bluestem

Schizachyrium scoparium

They commonly consume this widespread prairie grass.

Traits

Wildlife

Step into the incredible world of wild animals and plants living freely in nature. From tiny insects to towering trees, it's all part of the wild wonders around us!

Furry

Find adorable animals covered in a cozy coat of soft fur! Their fur helps them stay warm and protected in different environments.

Social

Discover creatures that love to live and work together! These animals form groups, helping each other find food, stay safe, and raise their young.

Horned

Look for animals that proudly wear horns, which are amazing natural crowns!

Grassland

These wide-open spaces are covered in grasses, often home to grazing animals and incredible predators! Experience the vastness of the plains.

Herbivorous

Meet the peaceful munchers and grazers who find all their nourishment from plants, leaves, and fruits. They transform plant energy into life!

Migratory

Follow incredible journeys across the world! These animals travel far and wide at different times of the year, often to find better food or warmer places.