American bison, sometimes called buffalo, are large grazing mammal bovines. Although they are closely related to cattle, goats and even cows, they are not related to the African buffalo or the water buffalo. The American bison, which is the largest land mammal in the world, is at greatest risk from humans.

National Bison Day aims to bring attention to the endangered status of the majestic American bison. The bison require plenty of space to thrive in semiopen grasslands and prairies. Human settlements on their land in the western and middle of North America have had a significant impact on their population.

American bison are currently at-risk and require special attention. Theodore Roosevelt, the US president, wrote in 1907 about the terrible consequences of allowing this species to die.

Since 2013, the US Senate has officially recognized National Bison Day to celebrate America’s history and the importance of the bison.

In May 2016, US President Barack Obama signed the National Bison Legacy Act into law. This happy ending to the successful “Vote Bison‚Äù campaign to make bison the nation’s mammal.

National Bison Day is celebrated at several sites across the United States that are connected to conservation of the American Bison. It offers an opportunity for people to enjoy events and activities in support of this huge animal.

Enjoy National Bison Day fun in many ways. Here are some ideas:

Participating in the Beards for Bison campaign is a fun way to support the nation’s mammal. Beards for Bison is a joint effort with Movember or No-Shave November. It takes place to honor National Bison Day.

People with facial hair may try to grow it in honor of National Bison Day. The goal is to have their facial fur as long as a bison’s. Participants who don’t want to grow a beard or are unable to do so can participate in the event by posting a photo of their fake beard on social media.

The World Wildlife Foundation (WWF), along with other charities, are committed to helping bison thrive in the future.

The WWF offers a special Adopt a Bison Program that allows people to donate money to help bison in the Northern Great Plains of the United States. These animals can also be supported with merchandise and gifts.