Bison

The American Bison

Bison are large bovines in the genus Bison within the tribe Bovini. Although colloquially referred to as a buffalo, it is only distantly related to the true buffalo. As a herbivore, it grazes on grains, hay, and corn. During the cold winter season, bison develop thick, woolly coats that help protect them from freezing temperatures and harsh winds. It is said that a bison's winter coat is so thick and provides insulation so effective that when snow accumulates on its coat, it will not melt from the heat of the bison's skin. Their skin also thickens in response to cold temperatures and fatty deposits appear to insulate the animal. This is important because during winter storms, bison will actually turn toward the storm, hunker down, and wait for it to pass. With thick coats and creating a low profile, bison can survive the same storm that would kill many domestic livestock.

Location

The American Bison is native to the plains of New Hanover and West Elizabeth though it can be found as far as the West Grizzlies. Despite not being as common in the West Grizzlies area they can survive just fine in the rough terrain as they have the ability use their large head and massive neck and shoulder muscles as snow plows to forage in snow as deep as four feet.

Hunting Tips

Due to the size of an average bison, high powered weapons like a Carcano Rifle, or a Bow with Improved Arrows, should also be considered when hunting. Bison meat can be used for cooking. Be careful because their numbers are dwindeling.

Genetic Descendants

• Winyan Bison

Conservation Status

While once plentiful, numbers have gone down considerably in recent years. Much like the native people they've been widely hunted down and slaughtered. Sadly no action has been taken as of yet to protect and conserve this animal.

Geographic Distribution

• Grizzlies West
• New Hanover
• West Elizabeth