The official National Mammal of the United States, the iconic North American Bison, has played a cultural, economic, and environmental role in the history of the country. Central to the livelihood of Native Americans, they are also a healthy food source and vital to religious ceremonies. The bison is the largest land mammal in North America, with males weighing up to 2,000 pounds and standing up to 6 feet tall. While cows may be smaller at 1,000 pounds and up to 5 feet tall, they’re still mighty powerful. However, Bison only live up to 20 years. The dark brown to black, thick shaggy coat of the full-grown bison keeps them warm during long, cold winters on the plains. When they’re born, the calves sport a reddish coat. While giant herds once covered the plains, hunters nearly decimated them by the 1800s. Now, bison populate all 50 states living in national parks, refuges, and on tribal and private lands.

Resource: https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-day/