In 1800, there were an astonishing 60 million bison roaming across North America. It was a sight to behold, these majestic creatures covering the vast plains and prairies. Their numbers were so immense that it seemed like they would be a permanent fixture of the landscape.
However, as settlers moved westward, the fate of the bison began to change. The arrival of European settlers brought with it the desire for land and resources, and unfortunately, the bison were seen as a hindrance to progress. They were hunted relentlessly for their meat, hides, and bones. The settlers saw them as nothing more than a commodity to be exploited.
By 1830, the bison population had already plummeted to 40 million. The relentless slaughter continued, fueled by the demand for bison products. By 1840, the number had dropped even further to 35,650,000. It was a shocking decline in such a short period of time.
But the worst was yet to come. In the 1870s, the bison population was reduced to a mere 5.5 million. It was a massacre of unprecedented proportions, the single largest animal genocide in history. The bison were pushed to the brink of extinction, with their numbers dwindling rapidly.
It is truly remarkable that the bison managed to survive such a devastating onslaught. Their ability to adapt and endure is a testament to their resilience as a species. Thanks to conservation efforts and the establishment of protected areas, the bison population has made a remarkable recovery.
Today, there are an estimated 20,000-25,000 bison in public herds in North America. While this is a fraction of their former numbers, it is a significant achievement considering the dire circumstances they faced. The bison’s journey from the brink of extinction to their current status is a story of hope and triumph.
The number of bison in 1800 was an astounding 60 million. The relentless hunting and exploitation of the species led to a drastic decline in their numbers, with only a fraction remaining today. The recovery of the bison population is a remarkable achievement and a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts.