More About Bison
Bison are the National Mammal of the U.S. and have a strong legacy, plus a positive environmental impact. Regenerative by Nature ©, their hooves act like a super-gardening tool and break up the soil as they graze, pushing in seeds and other plant matter to fertilize it.
- Unlike cows, bison are native to the U.S. and there are only two breeds: Plains and Woods. The plains bison are native to the North American mid-west and the woods bison are found in Canada primarily. They have a few anatomical differences, but are similar.
- Back in the late 1800's, bison almost became extinct due to over-hunting. Over the last few decades ranches around the country have helped increase the population by raising bison and selling the meat. The National Bison Association says to "Eat Bison to Save Bison!" Their goal is get bison numbers in the states back up to 1,000,000. If you like history and an encouraging read, check out bison history.
- People always ask us what's right - buffalo or bison? The term 'buffalo' is widely used and often interchangeable for 'bison', but technically buffalo or water buffalo are from Africa and look quite different.
- Bison calves are cute and they're called cinnamon calves because of their reddish-orange coloring when they're born. Around 3 months, they start to turn brown like an adult. Don't underestimate them though because after 2 days old they gain self-defense instincts and will put their head down, tail up, paw the ground and charge! Bison calves are born at 50 lbs and will leave a bruise! Even as babies, they have little horn nubs.
- Breeding season is in the fall, Sept.-Oct., and moms carry their calves for around 9 months, giving birth in the spring/early summer. They give birth on their own with no human intervention and the calves are typically weaned around 6 months.
- They do not need a barn or other shelter as they are wild and well-equipped to handle both hot and cold temperatures.