National Bison Day

Majestic bison grazing in a sunlit prairie, with a cowboy hat, western fashion, and a beautiful mountain backdrop.. — National bison day illustration

If I told you we are about to take a hallowed trip through time, celebrating a creature as majestic as it is fluffy, you might wonder whether I've finally lost it. But fear not! All will become clear as we embark on the fascinating journey that is National Bison Day. Buckle up folks!

When is Bison Day?

It's national bison day on the 7th November.

A Brief Stint Through Time

National Bison Day has galloped through the internet fields with the force of a prairie storm, notching up a respectable 6322 online mentions. The peak of this buffalo-induced frenzy? November 7, 2020. Yes, you may remember this day as the one when you accidentally liked your ex's photo from 2015 on Instagram. Trust me, a whole lot of people on the internet had better things to do that day - they were busy celebrating National Bison Day.

Why the Fuss About Bison?

Well, aside from the satisfaction of watching bison graze calmly in beautiful landscapes on your widescreen TV, the day itself provides a perfect opportunity to raise awareness about the habitats and landscapes that our bison friends call home. It's an awareness day with a fluffy face, so what's not to love? For the lovers of the great outdoors or digital nomads seeking inspiration - this is your day.

Fun, Finance, and ... Bison?

While Bison Day might not seem as sexy as say, National Chocolate Day (don't get me started on that), it does have rather surprising ties to finance. How so? Well, some would argue that our economy, ecology, and even our national identity have been influenced by bison! So next time you see a bison, pay some respect – they’re more than just walking duvets.

History behind the term 'Bison'

30,000 BCE

Ancient Engravings

Archaeological evidence suggests that the term 'bison' has been used for thousands of years. In the caves of Altamira, Spain, intricate engravings of bison dating back to 30,000 BCE have been discovered. These prehistoric artworks depict the magnificent and powerful creatures, showcasing the early fascination and recognition of the term 'bison'.

5th Century BCE

Greek Mythology

The term 'bison' has its roots in Greek mythology. The Greek word 'bison' or 'bisonus' was used to describe a wild animal, often associated with Dionysus, the Greek god of wine and fertility. These mythical bison were seen as powerful and untamed creatures, embodying the term's symbolism of strength and wilderness.

Late 18th Century

American Bison Discovery

The term 'bison' gained prominence in North America during the late 18th century when European explorers and settlers encountered the American bison, also known as the American buffalo. These massive, shaggy-haired creatures roamed the Great Plains in vast herds, becoming an integral part of Native American culture and an iconic symbol of the American West.

1920

Conservation Efforts

By the early 20th century, the term 'bison' faced a decline due to overhunting and habitat loss. However, in 1920, the American Bison Society was formed to protect and restore the dwindling bison populations. Thanks to conservation efforts, the term 'bison' survived and continues to inspire awe and fascination as a cultural and ecological icon.

1972

Bison Designation

Recognizing the importance of the term 'bison', the United States officially designated the American bison as the national mammal in 1972. This designation not only highlighted the term's historical and cultural significance but also aimed to raise awareness about the conservation needs of this iconic species.

Did you know?

Did you know that bison, despite their size and undeniably impressive presences, can run at speeds of up to 35 mph? That's faster than Usain Bolt! And they do it all without wearing running gear or needing a crowd to cheer them on. Talk about natural athletes!