The American Bison are the largest mammals in North America. Tens of millions once grazed the grasslands. They experienced a  massive reduction in the number of American Bison when hunting pushed them toward extinction in the 1880s. 

Some people call them buffalo, but the  American Bison is unrelated to the African Cape Buffalo or the Water Buffalo, the only true buffaloes in the world. Instead, the American  Bison is more closely associated with goats and cows. 

The female bison is slightly smaller than the male bison. Both have large heads with small curved horns and scraggly beards. Bison feed on grass all year, generally in the morning and evening, and rest during the day. 

They have few predators because of their size, but wolves, bears, and mountain lions attack young or old bison. In some areas, bison are legally hunted or raised for meat and hides. Some herds are protected and live in national parks and reserves.

The Bison is known for its physical strength and ability to endure harsh conditions. As a symbol, it represents resilience, toughness, perseverance, and the ability to overcome challenges.

The Bison was a vital resource for many Native American tribes, providing them with food, clothing, and other materials. As a symbol, it represents abundance, prosperity, and the importance of respecting and honoring the earth's resources.

Many Native American tribes believed the Bison had spiritual power and were considered sacred animals. As a symbol, it represents spiritual strength, sacredness, and the importance of honoring different cultures' spiritual beliefs and practices.