What is the best indication of a bison’s level of aggression?
Bourgeois Corner:
Running Thunder
Baby Bison
The moving multitude darkened the whole plains", wrote Lewis and Clark who encountered a herd at South Dakota White River in 1806. They were referring to one of the largest communities of wild animals the world has ever known - the bison.
Laurentian Environmental Center is pleased to announce a new evening program this year, Running Thunder, to introduce the world of the bison and the important place these animals occupy in America's past and present.
Using a PowerPoint slide show, bison artifacts and comparative examples the audience will gain an understanding and perspective about this lord of the prairie. Bison roamed our continent, including a large portion of Minnesota, in vast herds. In the early 1800s tens of millions of American Bison ruled their prairie domain and affected everything they came in contact with.
Bison can weigh up to one ton and stand up to six feet tall at their massive shoulder hump. This majestic mammal is agile and can run over 30 miles per hour for an extended period of time. It is no surprise early Americans would feel the prairie tremble and hear the rumbling of thunder before the bison herd ever came into view.
Native American tribes of the plains used every part of the bison in some way: the meat was eaten, the bones were fashioned into weapons, the hooves were ground into glue, and hides were made into ropes, blankets, clothing and shelters. Even bison droppings served as a source of fuel.
The westward movements of European settlers brought an end to the massive bison herds of the prairies. Trappers, hunters, and traders moved across the plains leaving rotting carcasses while buffalo hides were shipped eastward. The extinction of this unique symbol of strength and determination came very close to reality.
Running Thunder will look at the effects of the bison on the ecosystem, human interactions and the consequences of the westward expansion of the United States. The tale of the bison is a good reminder for us all to take a step back and consider the consequences of an action before the consequences become irrevocable.
To schedule this program contact LEC at 218-749-1288
or e-mai usl:
Stump the Naturalist:
Question and Answer
Question: What is the best indication of a bison’s level of aggression?
Answer: The position of the tail.
Body language is always a good indicator of a bison's current level of aggression. When a bison is in a loafing position, whether laying or standing, the tail hangs straight down, flicking occasionally to ward off insects. Excitement due to a disturbance by an intruder, human or otherwise, will be shown by a change in posture and tail position. If mildly excited, the tail will become slightly elevated. Increasing nervousness will be indicated by an arched tail, usually followed by defecation. A bison that has become combative raises it tail straight up into a vertical position and starts stalking toward the intruder. The challenge flag has been raised. Any intruder should quickly start looking for a way to escape.
Source: Where Buffalo Roam, by Milo J. Schult and Arnold O. Haugen
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