On the first Saturday in November, honors one of the most majestic beasts to roam the land.

#NationalBisonDay

The official National Mammal of the United States, the iconic North American Bison, has played a cultural, economic and environmental role in the history of the country. Central to the livelihood of Native Americans, they are also a healthy food source and vital to religious ceremonies.

The bison is the largest land mammal in North America, with males weighing up to 2,000 pounds and standing up to 6 feet tall. While cows may be smaller at 1,000 pounds and up to 5 feet tall, they're still mighty powerful. However, Bison only live up to 20 years.

The dark brown to black, thick shaggy coat of the full-grown bison keeps them warm during long, cold winters on the plains. When they're born, the calves sport a reddish coat.

While giant herds once covered the plains, hunters nearly decimated them by the 1800s. Now, bison populate all 50 states living in national parks, refuges and on tribal and private lands.

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL BISON DAY

Read about the bison. Visit an American museum featuring the history of the bison. Drive through a National Park to see living bison in their natural habitats. Learn the history of their population and their role in American culture. Share your experiences and celebrate their lasting legacy.

Compare your beard (real or faux) to a bison's! Take a picture and post on social media using #BeardsforBison or #NationalBisonDay to share on social media.

NATIONAL BISON DAY HISTORY

Since 2012, a movement launched officially recognizing the American bison as the national mammal of the United States. Organizers included making National Bison Day the first Saturday of November. The United States Senate signed resolutions yearly supporting the passage of such a proclamation. On May 9, 2016, President Barack Obama signed the law making the American bison the national mammal of the United States.

Bison FAQ

Q. What is a cross between a bison and domestic cattle?
A. A beefalo is the hybrid offspring of bison and domestic cow.

Q. Do both the male and female bison have horns?
A. Yes, both the male and female of the bison species grow horns.

Q. What are the female and male bison called?
A. Just like domestic cattle, the female of the bison species is called a cow and the male bison is called a bull.