National Bison Month – 1st July 2023

History Of National Bison Month

The gentle, fluffy giants known as bison are found in the United States, but wildebeest and buffalo are more commonly seen in Africa. Only the American bison and the less well-known European bison remain as live species. Samuel de Champlain, a French explorer, first used the term "buffalo" to refer to the bison he saw in 1616 after viewing skins and drawings displayed to him by members of the Nipissing First Nation. A few years later, in 1625, the term "buffalo" was used to refer to an American mammal for the first time in North America.

The word "buffalo" comes from the French word "boeuf," which American fur trappers who were French gave to bison. Later, the term "bison" was first adopted in 1774 and is still used today to describe this species.

You might be curious about the areas where these gentle giants reside and forage. The solution is scattered throughout. Similar to the African buffalo, American bison can be found in river valleys, on prairies, and on plains. Open or semi-open grasslands and sagebrush, where the soils can become fairly arid, are other examples of typical habitats. Additionally, they enjoy grazing in locations with gradual slopes in hills and mountains.

Since the American bison was designated as the nation's national mammal in 2016, July has been called National Bison Month. This day specifically honors the gorgeous animal's recovery after a period in which it was on the verge of extinction.

Why We Love National Bison Month

1. They have survived extinction

This was made possible in part by former American President Teddy Roosevelt. However, entire towns and staff members of national parks work hard to safeguard these unique creatures. Few species can survive extinction, but these bison have succeeded, with a little assistance from humans. They are now stronger than ever and continue to add to the visual grandeur of northern American nature.

2. There’s always room for more wildlife awareness

The emphasis may now be placed on the animals that still require aid and additional protection from the government and national parks as bison are no longer listed as an endangered species. As we honor these mammals during National Bison Month, we cannot help but draw attention to other natural species that might benefit from the assistance and exposure that bison received in the past, which helped keep them alive.

3. Bison have been around for ages

It is difficult to picture some American landscapes without these majestic beasts occupying some respectable space. There is a strong reason why these giants hold such a particular position in both American history and Native American traditions. They are calm creatures that will stop at nothing to defend their herds and calf. They are also highly protective. They are priceless American treasures.

National Bison Month Timeline

1625

Discover the Buffalo

Large, cow-like mammals were the first things the English language used the term "buffalo" to describe.

1774

a Bison arrives

The term "bison" was first used to describe these creatures and is still a valid scientific name for them today.

1889

Extinction Is Near

With 541 remaining surviving animals, the bison population in the United States has reached an all-time low.

1990

Protecting Them

The Inter-Tribal Bison Council was created to aid in the preservation of these creatures.

2002

Trade of Bison

The Mexican government receives bison calves from South Dakota and Colorado as a gift for farming and breeding.

5 Fun Facts About Bison

1. Bison know how to communicate

Although bison are recognized for having poor vision, they have good hearing and smell capabilities and are superb communicators.

2. Bison can outrun most mammals

After visiting the Dakota territory to spend time hunting the animal, Teddy Roosevelt contributed to saving the bison from extinction.

3. They are built for winter

They can use their heads to plow through the snow because their hump is made of muscle supported by lengthy vertebrae.

4. A president saved them from extinction

After visiting the Dakota territory to spend time hunting the animal, Teddy Roosevelt contributed to saving the bison from extinction.

5. They are born a different color

Since newborn bison calves are red or orange in hue, they are known as "red dogs."

National Bison Month FAQS

What predators hunt bison?

Due to their enormous size, adult bison have few natural predators, although wolves, mountain lions, and bears regularly hunt down and attack baby bison. Older and weaker bison are also easily preyed upon by predators.

What is the status of bison in 2023?

This summer marks the introduction of the 2023 Chevrolet ZR2 Bison, and we anticipate it will go on sale before the end of the year. Even though Chevrolet's example is a little bit milder than Ford's, it will provide Chevrolet with another tough truck in its lineup that is more suited to combat the Ford F-150 Raptor's lighting.

Are buffalo and bison the same animal?

Although the phrases buffalo and bison are frequently used interchangeably, they represent two different species of mammals. Native to Africa and Asia, respectively, are the Cape buffalo and water buffalo. Bison live throughout North America and Europe. Although they are both members of the Bovidae family, bison and buffalo are not related.

National Bison Month Activities

1. Change your profile picture to a bison

It may seem insignificant to alter your profile photo on one of your social media sites in order to raise awareness or draw attention to a cause. However, if done properly and includes links to insightful facts and blogs in your bio, it can help some people learn more about these animals and the amazing history behind their near extinction. Additionally, it's entertaining to have this furry behemoth as your profile photo; it surely sparks talk.

2. Donate to an organization

In the United States, there are hundreds or perhaps thousands of wildlife conservation organizations. Find one or two restaurants that offer bison and ask them what they need to do to prevent the extinction of these creatures. National parks may be able to perform some helpful things to keep these creatures secure and content. Find out if you may volunteer in a national park if you want to learn even more about all the various animal species that exist in the nation.

3. Watch a Discovery Channel special on bison

The majority of individuals in today's society grew up watching animal documentaries on television, particularly on networks like Discovery and Animal Planet. There isn't a better way to honor National Bison Month than to assemble your family and watch a nature documentary about bison. Try looking for some David Attenborough specials if you can't find anything on your local stations. He is sure to have included some truly Northern American species, such as the bison.

National Bison Month Dates