Gruppe von Indianer mit Pfeil und Bogen auf Pferden verfolgen ein Bison

The bison as a keystone species

The bison was a central species that shaped the ecology of the North American grasslands. Through its sheer numbers and movements, it influenced the nature of the prairies and served as a vital resource for the Native Americans.

The traditional bison hunt of the native americans

Even before the arrival of horses, the Plains Indians developed sophisticated hunting techniques. Using stones and willow branches, they skillfully guided massive bison herds across great distances, ultimately driving them over cliffs. This method enabled them to secure abundant supplies of meat and other essential resources.

The holistic use of the Bison

The Native Americans made use of every part of the bison. Beyond its meat, they utilized the hide, tendons, hooves, and even dung for various purposes. The bison provided them with food, tools, clothing, and medicine, ensuring that no part of the animal was wasted.

The destruction through commercial hunting

In the 19th century, large-scale commercial hunting of bison began. The animals were killed in vast numbers, primarily for their hides, while their carcasses were often left to rot. Later, their bones were gathered for processing.

The role of the US government

The US government played a direct role in the destruction of bison herds, clearing land for cattle ranching and stripping Native Americans of their primary food source. This led to the near extinction of the bison and the forced relocation of Indigenous communities to reservations.

The industrial use of bison hides

Bison hides were in high demand for clothing and industrial machine belts. Before electrification, factories depended on leather transmission belts, and bison leather was especially valued for its superior strength and durability.

Other factors of decline

Beyond hunting, the expansion of the railroad industry and widespread exploitation by hunters and traders further decimated the bison population. Prolonged droughts and increasing human encroachment on the prairies drastically shrank their natural habitat.

Origins and evolution

The bison originated in Eurasia and migrated to North America via the Bering Strait tens of thousands of years ago. Over time, this migration gave rise to the American plains bison and the wood bison, each evolving to thrive in distinct habitats.

The role of Bison antiquus

Bison antiquus, often referred to as the prehistoric bison, dominated North America's grasslands for over 10,000 years. As the Ice Age ended and the environment changed, it gradually gave way to the modern bison, which adapted to the evolving landscape.

Kopf eines Bildes in einer Winterlandschaft

The nearly lost species

By the late 19th century, relentless hunting and habitat destruction had driven the bison population down to fewer than 1,000 animals. Once numbering in the millions and roaming vast prairies, the species teetered on the edge of extinction.

Measures to save the species

Thanks to dedicated conservation efforts in the early 20th century, the once-dwindling bison population slowly began to recover. A few small, protected herds managed to survive, providing the genetic foundation for future restoration efforts.

The Bison Today: A Conservation Success Story

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