Bison, the species commonly referred to as buffalo, are present in North Dakota, inhabiting both public conservation areas and private ranchlands. Once nearly eradicated from the continent by the late 19th century, this iconic species has been successfully re-established through dedicated conservation and reintroduction efforts within the state. The current population is the result of a concerted effort involving federal agencies, state parks, Native American tribes, and commercial producers. These herds now roam parts of North Dakota’s prairies, serving as a symbol of historical significance and ecological recovery.
Bison vs. Buffalo: Clarifying the Terminology
The animals found in North Dakota are accurately called American bison, though the term “buffalo” is widely used due to a long-standing historical misnomer. Early European explorers likely confused the American bison with true buffalo species they knew from other continents, such as the Cape buffalo of Africa and the Water buffalo of Asia.
The biological differences are apparent in their physical features. American bison possess a massive hump over their shoulders, which assists in plowing snow away from grazing forage during winter. They also feature thick, shaggy winter coats. Conversely, true buffalo species lack this prominent shoulder hump and typically have smoother, shorter coats and much larger, more curved horns.
North Dakota’s Major Public Conservation Herds
The primary locations where the public can observe conservation herds are the state’s federally and state-managed lands. Theodore Roosevelt National Park (TRNP) manages two distinct herds within its boundaries, one in the South Unit and a smaller one in the North Unit. The park actively manages the population to prevent overgrazing and maintain a healthy range, setting target numbers for each unit.
This management is accomplished through periodic “roundups” where animals are gathered, tested for health, and selected for transfer to other conservation efforts. Another significant public herd is maintained at Sully’s Hill National Game Preserve, a smaller tract in the eastern part of the state. The herd is managed within a fenced area to balance the needs of the bison with the health of the enclosed prairie and woodland habitat. Population density is carefully maintained to avoid overbrowsing and overgrazing.
Tribal and Private Bison Management
Outside of the national park and game preserve, a large portion of North Dakota’s bison population is managed by private ranchers and Native American tribes. Tribal management represents a significant cultural and historical restoration, known as “rematriation,” reconnecting the animal with the spiritual and economic life of the people. The Spirit Lake Nation, for instance, manages a herd used to supply the reservation’s food program, supporting food sovereignty initiatives.
Native American tribes often receive surplus bison from federal herds like those at Theodore Roosevelt National Park. This practice helps infuse new genetics into their herds while also maintaining the ecological balance of the national park lands. The commercial sector is a major component of the state’s total population, with an estimated 23,000 bison being raised on private ranches. These private herds are managed for commercial meat production, contributing substantially to the overall population and the state’s agricultural economy.
The Current Status of Bison in the State
The overall bison population in North Dakota is a combination of these three sectors: conservation herds, tribal herds, and commercial ranching operations. The total number of bison in the state is likely over 25,000 animals, with the vast majority residing on private lands. This robust population scale highlights the success of reintroduction efforts since the species was nearly eliminated from the region.
Bison play a significant ecological role on the state’s prairies, acting as ecosystem engineers. Their selective grazing patterns increase plant diversity, and their hooves aerate the soil, stimulating grass growth and nutrient cycling. The animals also engage in “wallowing,” creating shallow depressions that collect water and provide micro-habitats. Ongoing efforts focus on managing genetic health, particularly in conservation herds, to ensure the long-term viability and ecological integrity of the American bison in North Dakota.