Bison Facts

• Bison are the largest terrestrial mammals in North America.
• Males may reach a length of 10 ½ - 12 feet long.
• Females may be 8 - 10 feet long.
• Weight ranges from 1800 - 2010 lbs for males, females 700 - 900 lbs.
• Height of some bulls may reach 6 feet at the top of the hump.
• Both males and females have short black horns curving upward then inward with narrow tips. Horn spread may reach 3 feet.
• Breeding may occur at any time of year, with peak season from June to early fall. Most calves are born from March to June.
• Gestation period is 270 to 285 days.
• Twin calves are very rare. A newborn will stand to nurse within 30 minutes, walk within hours and in 1 - 2 days join the herd with its mother. It is fully mature at 3 years.
• Bison cows up to 30 years of age have been known to produce a calf.
• Single sex herd size is usually 4 - 20 animals. During the summer and early fall breeding season, herds of mixed sexes can be seen.
• Bison can run at speeds of near 30 mph and have been known to jump 6 foot fences.
• Bison are most active in the cool early morning or late afternoon hours. During the hottest periods, they can be seen laying, chewing their cuds and dust bathing.
• When Bison are agitated, they hold their tails upward in the shape of a question mark.