Bison

American bison

Scientific name: Bison bison

 

The American bison is the largest mammal in North America.

Despite their size, bison can run at speeds of up to 40 miles an hour when needed. They have curved, sharp horns that can grow up to 61 centimeters in length. Bison grunt to communicate and keep in contact with the rest of the herd. They also bellow aggressively when challenging another animal.

On average, females are shorter than the males and have a smaller hump, thinner neck and more slender horns.

They are hardy animals that can stay outside in all weather conditions, including heavy snow and hot summers.

Near Threatened (Inc. Bar)

  1. At Noah's Ark...

    We have 2 American Bison... Luna and Big Mama.

  2. We live...

    On the hill, left of the entrance, next to the Red Deer

Adopt an animal Animal Encounters

  1. Size Fact

    Bison stand between 5ft – 6.5ft at the shoulder and weigh as much as a tonne.

  2. Food Fact

    American bison are herbivores that feed on plain grasses, herbs, shrubs and twigs. They tend to spend around 2 hours daily grazing, chewing the cud and resting before moving on to find new grass areas to graze on.

  3. Fun Fact

    Bison’s coats are so thick that their body heat doesn’t melt snow that falls on them.

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