All Animals

Animal Guide

American Bison

41 destinations · 24 states

Native Range
North America, especially the Great Plains and boreal regions

The American bison looks enormous even when it is standing quietly, and its behavior becomes more interesting the longer you watch. The massive shoulder hump, shaggy mane, and surprisingly narrow hindquarters give the animal a distinctive profile, while the thick winter coat can make the front half look almost oversized. Spend a few minutes near a herd and you may see bison grazing steadily, nudging one another, or rolling in dusty soil. Bulls can be especially striking during the breeding season, when they display their size and may wallow or bellow. Despite their bulk, bison can move much faster than their appearance suggests. Calves are often worth watching too. Their lighter-colored coats stand out against the adults as they follow the herd. At wildlife parks and large zoo habitats, seeing several bison together helps reveal their social side and the steady rhythm of life that once shaped huge stretches of the North American landscape.

American Bison

Where to see American Bison

41 destinations across 24 states

41 destinations

Your ZooHopper Passport

Turn your wildlife adventures into a Passport

Keep track of the zoos, aquariums, safari parks, and wildlife destinations you've visited—and save the places you want to explore next.

  • Remember every visit
  • Build your wishlist
  • Collect Passport Stamps
  • Share photos & contribute
Create Your Passport

Dan's Passport

Places
12
States
6
Wishlist
9

Passport stamps

Recently visited

  • Bronx ZooBronx, NY
  • Georgia AquariumAtlanta, GA
  • San Diego Zoo Safari ParkEscondido, CA

MY WISHLIST

Monterey Bay AquariumMonterey, CA