The American Bison is the largest terrestrial animal in North America. Bison are sometimes referred to as buffalo. This term originated in 1520 by Spanish explorer Cortez who was describing a large humpbacked animal.

Bison once roamed the Great Plains of North America in large numbers. By 1900 fewer than 1,000 animals remained. Although the bison population recovered, large herds are only found in federal, state, and some private parks.