Animals of the grassland

How are Bison designed for running across grasslands?

• They have strong, sturdy legs and hooves.

• They have wings for flying.

• They have webbed feet for swimming.

• They have long tails for balance.

Why are the teeth of bison broad and flat?

• To efficiently grind down tough grasses and plant material.

• To catch small insects.

• To chew meat easily.

• To dig holes in the ground.

What is the purpose of the hump over the front shoulders of a bison?

• It helps them navigate snow in winter and supports their powerful muscles.

• It stores water for dry seasons.

• It helps them fly short distances.

• It is used for attracting mates.

Bison are ruminants, what does this mean:

• They have a four-chambered stomach that helps them digest plant material efficiently.

• They eat only meat.

• They live in water.

• They have no stomach at all.

Remember what was said about grass on the previous worksheet, why do Bison need a 4-chambered stomach:

• To efficiently digest tough plant material like grasses and sedges.

• To store water for long periods.

• To help them run faster.

• To make them larger in size.

So what advantage in digesting grass do the bison have that deer have that only has 1 stomach:

• Bison can digest tougher grasses and thrive where other herbivores struggle.

• Bison can fly.

• Bison can live underwater.

• Bison can eat meat.

Bison are herd animals, what is a herd animal?

• An animal that lives and moves in groups with others of its kind.

• An animal that lives alone.

• An animal that only eats meat.

• An animal that can fly.

How do Bison show dominance to other Bison?

• By head shoving during dominance displays.

• By singing loudly.

• By running away.

• By changing color.

What are two reasons that Bison bath in dust and create wallows or huge mud puddles:

• To regulate body temperature and protect themselves from parasites.

• To find food and water.

• To hide from predators and sleep.

• To attract birds and insects.

What insulates the Bison from the harsh winter conditions:

• Their dense fur

• Their sharp teeth

• Their long tails

• Their large ears