The people of the United States of America, both north and south, and the Europeans celebrate National Bison Day every first Saturday of November. The day is dedicated to the animal because of their historical, cultural, and economic contribution to the United States of America.
History
In the 19th century, this species nearly went extinct because of excess slaughtering and hunting and because of westward expansion. Bison supporters, especially the Native Americans, always tried their best to stop this. Because of their efforts and the U.S wildlife association, national park system, and others, saving the Bison has become a success story. And the concept of making National Bison Day is because of increasing awareness and saving it.
Some groups are still working to remind the Americans about the important role that Bison plays in the lives of the native. Some consider Bison as a sacred animal that provides food and cloth.
There are approximately half a million Bison now around the United States, according to the nature conservancy, while in the 16th century, the previous number of Bison was between 30 to 60 million. Unfortunately, the present number is only 1% of the previous number.
The National Mammal of U.S.A
National Bison Day was first introduced in front of us in 2012. Later on, in 2016, on the 9th of May, the then president of the United States, Barack Obama, signed the national bison legacy act into law. Officially introduced Bison as the national mammal of the United States.
American Bison belongs to the family Bovidae. This family also includes Buffalo, cows, and goats. Sometimes people make mistakes by taking both as similar species. But these two belong to different species though the family is one.
Bison are native to North and South America and Europe. And the original Buffalo belongs to Africa and Asia.
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Nature of Bison
Bison are the largest mammals in North America. They are peaceful animals. Their mood can be guessed by observing their tail. When they feel relaxed, they swing their tail side by side. Bison can jump six feet high. They are good swimmers too. They can run around 40 kilometres per hour.
National Bison Day: Celebration
This day is a special one for Bison lovers. It can be observed in various ways.
We can stand in support of the Bison, the mammal, because of its contribution of it to our lives.
We can be more caring about the species. We should abide by the law to protect Bison so that they will never become extinct again.
Put on a National Bison day T-shirt. It shows your love and support for the Bison.
You can post a photo on social media wearing a National Bison Day T-shirt.
National Bison Day: Quotes
“To use the power of the bison, I had to perform that part of my vision for the people to see.”
Black Elk
“A world without huge regions of total wilderness would be a cage; a world without lions and tigers and vultures and snakes and elk and Bison would be – will be – a human zoo. A high-tech slum.”
Edward Abbey
“If there is no place for wild bison in all of Montana, then surely we have crossed a line between the Last Best Place and the Once Best Place.”
Jim Bailey
National Bison Day: Messages
- As you develop your awareness of nature, you begin to see how we influence all life and how all life influences us. A key and a critical feature for us to know.
- Stand your ground, have a tough hide, roam wild and free, and have a strong spirit. Let the chips fall where they may!
Whatever the matter is, no species should be extinct from the world. So we should take care of it.
