Where the Prairie Breathes: Yellowstone’s Bison Saga
The Roam of the Range: it is very exciting to see these large mammals in their native habitat. The term Bison is generally accepted as the scientific name for these animals, and Buffalo is used more informally. The American Buffalo symbolizes abundance and manifestation. A Bison herd also reflects social structure and a strong society environment; representing status and family. These gorgeous animals appear so peaceful and serene; but can be very fierce if provoked. We always stay a good distance away (and zoom in) for any sort of video or photography.
Yellowstone’s Bison Herd of the Hayden Valley
Bison are widely considered a keystone species in the Yellowstone ecosystem. Their impact on the environment is disproportionately large compared to their abundance, which influences the structure and function of the entire ecosystem~
Habitat Modification:
Grazing, trampling, and wallowing create a mosaic of different habitats within the prairie. They create areas of short and tall grass, which support a wider variety of plant and animal species. Wallows, created by bison rolling in the dirt, can even become temporary wetlands, providing unique habitats. The diverse habitats created by bison support a wide range of other species, including grassland birds, insects, and small mammals. Predators also rely on bison as a food source.
Nutrient Cycling:
Bison contribute to nutrient cycling by grazing, defecating, and decomposing. Their grazing helps control plant growth, and their dung and decaying carcasses provide nutrients for plants and other organisms. Their presence and activities are essential for maintaining the health and biodiversity of prairie ecosystems, like the Hayden Valley in Yellowstone National Park.
See the below video of the Hayden Valley Herd.
Bison Attacks
Why are there more bison attacks than bear attacks in U.S. national parks? (Hint: it’s not because they’re more aggressive.) Contrary to popular belief, bison injure more people annually than bears in parks like Yellowstone. But here’s the twist: It’s not because bison are more dangerous – it’s because people get way too close.
Tourists often underestimate bison because they “look slow” or “harmless.” But bison can run up to 35 mph (56 km/h) – faster than most horses. They weigh over 2,000 lbs (900 kg) and can toss a human like a ragdoll if threatened.
Meanwhile, people respect bears from a distance, but with bison? People try selfies. Bad idea.
Key reason for more bison attacks:
- Habituation + misjudgment.
- Humans feel “safe” near bison, but they forget: they’re wild, massive, and unpredictable.
So remember:
- Stay at least 25 yards (23 meters) away from bison.
- Don’t run.
- And please, no selfies with wildlife.
They’re not influencers — they’re survivors. Nature is wise. Respect its boundaries.
All of our bison footage has been from the safety of being inside a vehicle. We have never left the car.
The video below shows the wildland fires at Togwotee Pass in the summer of 2024; located north of town (seen in the background behind the herd).
This second video shows a Bison baby (Red Dog) and momma as part of the herd.