The American bison, often recognised as a symbol of the Great Plains, stands as a remarkable testament to the resilience of North America's wildlife. This majestic mammal has a rich history steeped in wonder, but also imbued with struggle.

Dating back centuries, the American bison played a critical role in the lives and culture of Native American tribes. A provider of food, tools and clothing, their presence was seen as a key indicator of the overall health of the ecosystem. However, the 19th century brought an unforeseen and drastic decline in bison populations. As explorers and settlers expanded westward, they hunted bison in large numbers, nearly pushing this formidable creature to extinction.

Enter the great field of conservation. Against this backdrop of dwindling numbers and shattered ecosystems, the bison found its champions. Various organizations and individuals have made concerted efforts to resuscitate the dying populations, marking one of the most pivotal conservation success stories of our time. Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks became cornerstones of these efforts, providing the bison with protected habitats to grow and thrive.

I hope, through my lens, you'll appreciate not just the undisturbed grandeur of the bison, but also the importance of conservation in preserving the world's wildlife. In our fight for survival, the American bison remains a palpable symbol of endurance and adaptability that we believe should continue to inspire us.

BISON NUMBERS: roughly 15,000

Species Threat LEVEL: Near Threatened