National Bison Day is celebrated on the first Saturday in November each year to recognize the importance of the American bison to the country’s culture and ecosystem.

Bison are North America’s largest land mammals and once roamed the Great Plains in vast herds. However, their populations were decimated by overhunting and habitat loss in the late 19th century. By the early 1900s, there were only a few hundred bison left in the wild.

Thanks to conservation efforts, bison populations have rebounded in recent decades. Today, there are over 500,000 bison in North America, and they are found in a variety of habitats, including national parks, wildlife refuges, and private ranches.

Bison in American culture

Bison have played an important role in American culture for centuries. Native American tribes revered the bison as a sacred animal and relied on it for food, clothing, and shelter. Bison also played a role in the westward expansion of the United States, as settlers hunted bison for food and their hides were used to make leather goods.

Today, bison continue to be an important symbol of American culture. Bison are featured on the U.S. dime and the national seal of the U.S. Department of the Interior. Bison are also popular tourist attractions and are featured in many movies and television shows.

The importance of bison to the ecosystem

Bison are keystone species in the Great Plains ecosystem. They help to keep grasslands healthy by grazing on weeds and other unwanted plants. Bison also play a role in seed dispersal and help to aerate the soil.

Bison are also a food source for many predators, such as wolves and grizzly bears. By providing food for predators, bison help to maintain the balance of the ecosystem.

How to celebrate National Bison Day

There are many ways to celebrate National Bison Day. Here are a few ideas:

• Visit a bison herd at a national park or wildlife refuge.
• Learn about bison conservation and the role that bison play in the ecosystem.
• Eat bison meat, which is a healthy and sustainable choice.
• Support businesses that are committed to bison conservation.
• Educate others about the importance of bison and bison conservation.

By celebrating National Bison Day, we can help to ensure that these magnificent animals continue to thrive for generations to come.