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American bison

North America·Mammal

Although bison look slow and docile, they can become very aggressive if startled or threatened. Bison can run at speeds of up to 35 m.p.h. and are extremely agile. Like cattle, bison are grazers, although they eat a larger variety of plants. At one time, the bison was the most numerous large mammal in North America.

  • American bison
  • Conservation StatusLeast Concern
  • Life span15-40 years
  • Body size1,300-2,200 lbs.
    5-6 ft. tall
  • Native habitat Prairie grasslands of North American parks, reserves, and private property
  • DietGrass, leaves, wood, bark
American elk Black-tailed prairie dog

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