Bison
A large, shaggy animal that once roamed the Great Plains in huge herds, also called buffalo.
What is it?
Bison are large mammals that live in North America. They can weigh up to 2,000 pounds. For Plains tribes like the Blackfeet, bison were essential. They provided meat for food, hides for clothing and shelter, bones for tools, and sinew for thread. Bison were central to their way of life.
Why it matters
Bison were a keystone species for the Great Plains ecosystem and for Native American cultures. Understanding bison helps you understand the art and daily life of the Blackfeet people.
Where you've seen it
This list grows as you capture more exhibits related to bison.