The Bison: Survivors of the Grasslands

The video discusses the historical and ecological significance of bison in North America. Once numbering over 60 million, bison were crucial to Native American life for food and clothing. However, European expansion drastically reduced their numbers to less than 1,100 by 1869. Today, around 65,000 bison live in protected areas. Bison are well-suited to grasslands, feeding primarily on grass and avoiding overgrazing by constantly moving. They also adapt to seasonal changes by shedding their winter coats.

What was the primary reason for the drastic decline in bison populations during the 19th century?

• Natural disasters

• Hunting by Native Americans

• Disease outbreaks

• Westward expansion of European settlers

Approximately how many bison are alive today, and where do they primarily reside?

• Around 10,000 in urban zoos

• Roughly 65,000 in protected parks and preserves

• About 100,000 in private farms

• Nearly 50,000 in the wild

Why are bison particularly suited to living on grasslands?

• They are nocturnal animals

• They require very little water

• They feed almost exclusively on grass

• They can fly short distances

How do bison prevent overgrazing in their habitat?

• By eating a variety of plants

• By migrating to different areas

• By living in small groups

• By hibernating during winter

What adaptation helps bison withstand intense summer heat?

• Thick fur coats

• Ability to store water

• Shedding their winter coats

• Living in shaded areas