In Washington State, the presence of large bovines often called “buffalo” is a common inquiry. The animal native to North America is properly called the American Bison. These mammals were historically part of Washington’s ecosystems and continue to exist in the state today, though their populations and management differ significantly from their historical free-roaming past.
Historical Presence of Bison in Washington
American Bison once roamed Washington State. Archaeological evidence, including finds on Orcas Island and in the Columbia River Basin, indicates their historical presence. They were primarily found in the eastern areas of the state, particularly the Columbia River Basin and the Palouse region, which offered suitable grasslands and water sources.
Bison populations in Washington were largely extirpated by the mid-19th century. Overhunting by early settlers and significant habitat changes contributed to their disappearance. Historical accounts suggest the last known wild bull in the Grand Coulee area may have been killed around the 1820s. This decline occurred well before the widespread slaughter of bison on the Great Plains, indicating local pressures played a substantial role in their early removal from the state.
Current Bison Populations in Washington
While no extensive wild, free-ranging bison herds exist across Washington State, several managed populations are present. These herds are primarily located on tribal lands and in wildlife parks, reflecting conservation efforts and cultural revitalization. Privately owned bison ranches also operate within the state, typically raising animals for meat production.
The Yakama Nation maintains a significant bison herd on their lands near Toppenish. This herd, which has reached over 200 animals, began in 1991 with 12 bison. The tribe recently received additional bison from Yellowstone National Park to enhance genetic diversity and support food sovereignty for their community.
Other tribal nations are also re-establishing bison herds. The Kalispel Tribe in northeast Washington recently received over 65 bison from Nebraska, adding to their existing program. The Colville Confederated Tribes released their first 30 bison near Buffalo Lake in 2023, with calves born in 2025, marking a cultural and ecological reintroduction. For public viewing, American Bison can be observed at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park in Eatonville.
Identifying Bison and Avoiding Misconceptions
Distinguishing American Bison from other large animals in Washington State, such as domestic cattle or moose, involves recognizing several distinct physical characteristics. American Bison possess a prominent hump over their shoulders, a large head, and a thick, shaggy coat, particularly around their head, neck, and forelegs, often including a beard. Their horns are short, sharp, and curve outwards and upwards from the sides of their massive heads.
In contrast, true buffalo species, like the African Cape buffalo and the Asian water buffalo, are found on different continents and lack the distinctive shoulder hump of the American Bison. Their horns typically have different shapes, with Cape buffalo horns resembling a handlebar mustache and water buffalo horns being long and crescent-shaped. Domestic cattle generally have a more even body profile without the pronounced hump and massive forequarters of a bison. Moose, another large North American mammal, are characterized by their large, palmate antlers (in males) rather than horns, longer and thinner legs, and a less stocky build with a hump that tapers quickly.