bison

Bison are large, sturdy mammals native to North America and Europe, commonly recognized for their massive frames and distinctive hump on their shoulders. They typically roam the plains and grasslands, where they graze on grasses and shrubs. Bison play an essential role in their ecosystems, helping to maintain grassland health through their grazing habits. The American bison, in particular, is a symbol of the American West and was historically significant to Indigenous Peoples. Due to overhunting and habitat loss, bison populations drastically declined in the 19th century, but conservation efforts have helped them recover in recent years.