The first Saturday of every November is National Bison Day, which honors one of America’s most recognized animals, the American bison. The American bison holds a large place in our history, culture, economy, and ecology. This is evidenced by the fact that the bison appears in the official seal of the Department of the Interior, on several pieces of US currency, on two state flags, is the state mammal of Wyoming, and the state animal of Kansas and Oklahoma. As of 2016, it is also the National mammal of the United States. In addition, this great animal holds a special place in the cultural and religious aspects of life in many Native American tribes. It also represents one of our nation’s first conservation efforts.

The American bison is the largest land mammal in the United States, and is considered an important keystone species in the American grasslands. Through grazing, fertilization, spread of seeds, and even trampling of the grasses, the bison have helped to shape the ecosystem of the grasses. By spreading the seeds of various grasses, herbs, sedges, and bushes the bison helped to shape the landscape of the American west. Several types of animals, most notably birds and insects, have evolved along with the bison herds as they feed on specific grasses, seeds, and other vegetation that were spread by the bison.

As white settlers expanded west, the American bison was nearly wiped out through excessive hunting, diseases brought into their area by domestic cattle, and displacement from their native lands. In 1907, President Theodore Roosevelt and the American Bison Society began the conservation efforts by moving 15 animals from the Bronx Zoo to the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma where they could be protected and bred under natural conditions. Similar efforts were also underway on several Native American reservations in the Great Plains using orphaned calves to start protected herds. Through a concerted effort of Native American communities, conservationists, ranchers, and politicians the species has made an amazing comeback, and although still considered a protected species, it can now be found in all fifty states of the United States.

As you can see, based on all of this, the American bison most definitely has earned a day of recognition. There are plenty of ways that you can accomplish this. There are many online events that range from serious lectures to the definitely not serious practice of posting selfie’s of oneself in a beard, real or fake (so have fun with it!) on social media. Many State and National Parks are having events, open houses, and bison viewings as a way to celebrate. You can also get involved with a conservation group either by making a donation or by volunteering your time. Whatever you choose to do, make sure you spend a few minutes today in recognition of one of our Nation’s greatest icons!

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