plains bison

The plains bison (Bison bison bison) is one of two species of oxlike grazing mammals in the genus Bison, native to North America. These large mammals are characterized by a broad, heavy head carried low, a pronounced shoulder hump, and heavy forequarters. They possess coarse, dark brown fur, with males standing about 6.5 feet at the shoulder and weighing over 1,980 pounds, while females are smaller.12

Historically, plains bison were abundant, forming the basis of the economy for the Plains Indians. However, extensive hunting led to a drastic reduction in their numbers. Conservation efforts have since helped to reestablish populations in protected areas.134