Bison bison

Bison bison, commonly known as the American bison or buffalo, is a large hoofed mammal native to North America. They are known for their massive size, with males weighing up to 2,000 pounds, and their thick, shaggy coats. Bison are social animals that live in herds and play a crucial role in their ecosystems by grazing on grasses, which helps maintain healthy grasslands. Historically abundant, bison population drastically declined due to hunting and habitat loss in the 19th century but have since recovered through conservation efforts. They are a national symbol and an important cultural heritage for many Native American tribes.