The Buffalo

The American bison, also known as the American buffalo, is the heaviest land mammal in North America. It has a shaggy coat of brown hair on its shoulders and legs and its body is covered with shorter, finer hair.

Bison live in herds of 20 to 50 animals. The females lead family groups. The males either live alone or in small groups most of the year. Bison roam great distances in the wild. Although they are large animals, their running speed can reach 30 miles per hour. As is noted on the following diagram, the Native Americans used all parts of the buffalo for many diverse purposes.