biison

Biison is a genus of bovids found in North America and Europe. The genus comprises two extant species: the American bison (Bison bison) and the European bison (Bison bonasus). Both species are large, herbivorous mammals characterized by their massive heads, shaggy coats, and distinctive humps.

The American bison, also known as the buffalo, is the larger of the two species. It has a broad distribution across the plains and prairies of North America. Historically, these animals roamed in vast herds, playing a crucial role in the ecosystem. Their populations suffered drastic declines in the 19th century due to hunting and habitat loss, but conservation efforts have led to a significant recovery.

The European bison, or wisent, is native to the forests of Eastern Europe. It is slightly smaller and has a more slender build than its American counterpart, with longer legs and a less pronounced hump. Like the American bison, the wisent faced near extinction in the early 20th century. However, reintroduction programs have helped to re-establish populations in several European countries.

Both species are social animals, typically living in herds. They are grazers, feeding primarily on grasses and sedges. Their reproductive cycle involves a gestation period of about nine months, with females usually giving birth to a single calf. Biison are an iconic symbol of the wild and represent important conservation success stories.