Icons of a Wild America: The History of the Bison

The American Bison (Bison bison), often referred to as the buffalo, is a symbol of strength, resilience, and the wild spirit of America. These magnificent creatures once roamed the North American continent in vast herds, their numbers estimated to be around 30 to 60 million individuals before European settlers arrived. However, by the late 19th century, the bison population had plummeted to near extinction due to a combination of factors including market hunting, habitat destruction, and deliberate extermination campaigns aimed at weakening Native American communities. Steven Rinella captures this dramatic decline in his book, American Buffalo, noting, “It’s hard to comprehend the scale of the slaughter.” Here we briefly explore the history of the American Bison, the forces that led to their near extinction, and the concerted efforts that brought them back from the brink.

Pre-Colonial Abundance

Before the arrival of European settlers, the American Bison were an integral part of the ecosystem and indigenous cultures across the Great Plains. Bison provided Native American tribes with food, clothing, shelter, and tools. The herds moved in a cyclical pattern, migrating with the seasons in search of food and water. This natural behavior not only sustained the bison populations but also helped maintain the health of the prairie ecosystem.

One of the traditional hunting methods used by Native Americans involved driving bison off cliffs, known as "buffalo jumps." This technique allowed them to kill large numbers of bison efficiently. As Shepard Krech III notes in "The Ecological Indian," the use of buffalo jumps “often resulted in the deaths of far more animals than could be immediately used.” This brings to light the complexity of indigenous interactions with the environment, challenging the idealized notion that Native Americans lived entirely “in harmony with nature.”

Krech argues that human beings, regardless of time or place, often struggle with conserving wildlife and natural resources. He states, “There is no doubt that many native peoples significantly altered the landscapes they inhabited.” This perspective is important in understanding why contemporary conservation efforts, such as those in the United States, impose strict regulations to prevent overexploitation and ensure the survival of wildlife and natural habitats. These historical insights remind us that the balance between human activity and environmental preservation has always been delicate and requires ongoing vigilance. 

The Decline: Overhunting and Extermination

The arrival of European settlers marked the beginning of a drastic decline in bison numbers. The introduction of firearms and the transcontinental railroad made it easier for market hunters to kill bison in excessive numbers. Commercial market hunting for bison hides and meat became a lucrative business, leading to the mass slaughter of these animals. Between 1872 and 1874, an estimated 4.5 million bison were killed, primarily for their hides.

Moreover, the U.S. government saw the destruction of bison herds as a strategic move to weaken Native American tribes who relied on the animals for their livelihood. By decimating the bison populations, the government aimed to force Native Americans onto reservations, thereby opening up more land for settlers. This shameful and deliberate extermination campaign, combined with habitat loss due to agricultural expansion, pushed the bison to the brink of extinction. By the 1880s, fewer than 1,000 bison remained in the wild.

The Road to Recovery

The near-extinction of the American Bison did not go unnoticed. In the late 19th century, a handful of individuals and organizations began to recognize the importance of saving this iconic species. Among the first to take action were private ranchers who captured and bred some of the last remaining bison. Notable figures included James "Scotty" Philip in South Dakota and Charles Goodnight in Texas, both of whom started small herds that would become the foundation for future conservation efforts.

One of the most significant milestones in bison conservation was the establishment of the American Bison Society (ABS) in 1905, spearheaded by William Hornaday, the director of the New York Zoological Park (now the Bronx Zoo). The ABS aimed to raise awareness about the plight of the bison and to support efforts to reestablish herds in protected areas. In 1907, the ABS successfully reintroduced bison to the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma, marking the beginning of the species' recovery in the wild.

Modern Conservation Efforts

Today, the American Bison is a conservation success story, thanks to the dedicated efforts of various organizations, government agencies, and private individuals. Bison herds can now be found in numerous national parks, wildlife refuges, and private ranches across North America. Yellowstone National Park is home to one of the largest free-ranging bison herds, descendants of the 23 individuals that survived the mass slaughter of the 19th century. Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota is another significant refuge, honoring the legacy of Roosevelt’s conservation efforts and providing a safe habitat for bison to thrive.

In addition to protected areas, bison are increasingly being integrated into sustainable agricultural practices. Ranchers are recognizing the ecological benefits of bison grazing, which can help restore and maintain healthy prairie ecosystems. Moreover, initiatives like the InterTribal Buffalo Council work to reestablish bison herds on Native American lands, reconnecting tribes with this culturally significant species. These combined efforts highlight the multifaceted approach to bison conservation, ensuring their continued presence on the American landscape.

Conclusion

The history of the American Bison is a testament to the resilience of nature and the power of concerted conservation efforts. From the brink of extinction, to a symbol of restoration, the bison's journey reflects the importance of preserving our natural heritage. The collaborative efforts of conservationists, ranchers, and indigenous communities have ensured that the bison will continue to roam the American plains, embodying the spirit of the wild and the promise of recovery.