“Already the state mammal or animal of three states, it’s time bison are adopted as the National Mammal”. On Thursday, the Senate moved to concur The National Bison Legacy Act, designating the bison as America’s national mammal and a “historical symbol of the United States”. The bison, like the bald eagle, is a quintessentially American symbol.
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But as Americans began to conquer and pillage Native American nations across what is now the continental USA, destroying bison populations became a key part of the American strategy to ruin Native American livelihood. Bison can grow to weigh more than a ton, stand up to 6 ½ feet tall, and run as fast as 40 miles per hour. Advocates believe formally recognizing the bison will help protect its place in American cultural and natural history.
A group of Yellowstone National Park bison await shipment to slaughter inside a holding pen along the park’s northern border near Gardiner, Montana.
“The bison, like the bald eagle, has for many years been a symbol of America for its strength, endurance and dignity, reflecting the pioneer spirit of America”, Hoeven said. John Hoeven, R-N.D. Hoeven’s office said it expects the Senate to concur with the House version this week and send the legislation to the president to be signed into law. It’s a growing segment of USA animal agriculture.
Bison populations dwindled from tens of millions to the brink of extinction in the late 19th century – falling to approximately 1,000 individuals due to overhunting and westward expansion.
“The National Bison Legacy Act, once enacted, will declare the bison as our nation’s first national mammal ever”, said Cristián Samper, Wildlife Conservation Society’s President. Some are found in natural areas, parks and refuges but majority live in private ranches.
The bison is one of the first species brought back from near extinction.
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This vote is the result of great work by the Wildlife Conservation Society, the Intertribal Buffalo Council, and many other organizations and businesses.
