Bison

The American bison was named the national mammal of the United States where they are the largest land mammal. American bison were nearly driven to extinction by hunting but initially through captive propagation followed by introductions to national parks and most recently private ranches, their numbers can now be considered secure again. Male bison can grow to be over 1,8m tall 4m long. The lifespan is about 25 years and calves are an orange-red color until they are a few months old. Both sexes grow horns and they are able to run faster than horses. Bison have been integral to North American Tribal culture, providing them with food, clothing, fuel, tools, shelter and spiritual value. Established in 1992, the Inter Tribal Buffalo Council works with the National Park Service to transfer bison from national park lands to tribal lands.