National Bison Day

National Bison Day is a holiday honoring an animal that appears in the wild, in zoos, on coins, sports team logos, and even some national flags. Celebrated every year on the first Saturday of November, National Bison Day offers an opportunity to reflect on the importance of bison, their environmental impact, and their place in American culture and heritage.

History

Bison have long been revered by Indigenous peoples, serving as both a source of survival and spiritual inspiration. Sadly, by the early 20th century, overhunting and human encroachment reduced bison populations to just 700 in private hands and only 23 in Yellowstone National Park. In 1992, Native Americans formed a group of enthusiasts dedicated to reviving bison populations, providing educational programs and technical resources to 56 tribes. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed in 1997 to further these efforts.

Interesting Facts

• The first official National Bison Day resolution was passed by the US Senate in 2012, with strong support from Indigenous groups and the Wildlife Conservation Society.
• In 2016, President Barack Obama signed a law designating the bison as the national mammal of the United States.
• The main difference between bison and buffalo is their native range—bison are native to the Americas, while buffalo live in Africa and Asia.
• Today, there are about 500,000 bison living across nearly all US states.
• Bison and Indigenous peoples coexisted for centuries, but as settlers expanded westward, both bison and Indigenous populations suffered greatly.

How to Take Part

To participate in National Bison Day, learn more about this iconic animal. For example, if a bison’s tail hangs down, it’s relaxed—if the tail is up, the animal may be agitated or preparing to charge. Visit a national park, such as Yellowstone, to see bison in their natural habitat. You could also support bison conservation efforts or wear bison-themed clothing to show your appreciation for this symbol of American heritage.

When is National Bison Day in 2025?

National Bison Day is observed on the first Saturday of November each year.

Observations