American Bison are present in California, though they are not native to the state. These large mammals exist in several managed, contained environments. They were intentionally introduced for conservation, film, or exhibition, and their populations are carefully monitored.
Bison’s Path to California
American Bison are not native to California; their historical range was primarily the Great Plains. The introduction of bison to California began through various means, often driven by human interest rather than natural migration. One of the most notable introductions occurred on Santa Catalina Island in 1924, when a herd of approximately 14 to 24 bison were brought over for a silent film production. Accounts vary regarding which film, either “The Vanishing American” or “The Thundering Herd,” was the intended purpose, but the animals were ultimately left on the island.
Another significant introduction happened at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, where a herd was established with bison from the San Diego Zoo. Between 1973 and 1978, about 14 bison were gradually moved to the base, forming the foundation of the current population there. San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park also received its first bison in 1891 as part of a conservation effort to help save the species from near extinction.
Where California’s Bison Live Today
The most well-known population resides on Santa Catalina Island. This herd, which once grew to around 600 animals, is now managed by the Catalina Island Conservancy, aiming to maintain a population of no more than 150 individuals through a birth control program. The current herd size is approximately 80 to 100 bison, with the last calf born in 2013 due to the contraception efforts. These bison roam across 88% of the island, which is protected by the Conservancy.
Another notable group exists at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. This conservation herd numbers approximately 90 to 150 individuals. Although considered wild-roaming within the base, their movements are confined to the large, undeveloped areas of the military installation. San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park also hosts a managed herd within a dedicated paddock. Beyond these primary locations, smaller populations of American Bison can be found in various zoos and private ranches across the state.
American Bison Versus Buffalo
The terms “bison” and “buffalo” are often used interchangeably, yet they refer to distinct animals belonging to the Bovidae family. American Bison are native to North America and Europe, while true buffalo species (like African Cape Buffalo and Asian Water Buffalo) are found on different continents. This geographical separation is a primary distinction.
Physical characteristics also differentiate them. American Bison possess a prominent hump on their shoulders, a large head, and a thick, shaggy coat, particularly noticeable in colder climates. Their horns are shorter and more pointed, curving upwards. In contrast, African and Asian buffalo species lack the pronounced shoulder hump and typically have shorter, less shaggy hair. Their horns are often larger and more curved, sometimes joining at the base to form a “boss” in African buffalo. While both are large bovines, American Bison are generally adapted to temperate and colder environments, whereas buffalo thrive in warmer, often tropical, climates.