In the early 1800’s it was estimated that 65 million bison roamed throughout North America. But market hunting and poaching had a devastating effect on the population and by 1890 only 1,000 remained. Even after the establishment of Yellowstone National Park, the protection for the bison did not occur until the army arrived in 1886 to protect the park and its resources. Bison are the largest mammals living in the park and Yellowstone is the only place in the lower 48 where the population of wild bison has persisted since pre-historic times. They are truly majestic animals weighing up to 2000 pounds and standing 6 feet at the shoulders. They may look big and slow but they can run up to 30 MPH! In the summer you can find them in the grassy areas and in the winter they stay near the thermal areas of the geyser basins for warmth. Some of the best areas in Yellowstone to spot the bison are the Hayden Valley along the Yellowstone River, Lamar Valley and the Madison, Firehole and Gibbon Rivers. |
