Bison Wildlife

Bison

A proud symbol of the American West, these mammals are two tons of fur, muscle, and beauty. They can also run 35 mph and have absolutely no interest in your selfie. Respect the 25-yard rule. Watch from a distance. Appreciate the majesty without testing your sprinting skills.

Built for the Wild

Cold doesn't slow them down

Bison pack layers, with a wooly undercoat that traps heat, and an outer that repels wind and snow.

They've always got ground

Heavier up front and lighter in the back, a bison's frame is built for snow, gravel, mud and more.

Horns aren't for show

They're defensive tools, and males and females possess them, but defensive tools. Tread carefully.

They enjoy bathing in the dust

Bison roll in the dirt (a behavior known as wallowing) primarily to manage flies, ticks, and lice, to shed their thick winter coats and cool off during the summer.

Wild Facts

Bisons might be hefty, but they can jump up to six feet vertically. Don't spook them—or try to dunk on them.

In Grand Teton and nearby, bison are one of the biggest (and few) causes of traffic pileups. Known locally as "buffalo jams."