| Bison,
commonly referred to as the American Plains Buffalo, once roamed the
entire North American Continent with their numbers estimated at over 60
million. Bison were an integral part of the ecosystem for centuries,
thriving on wild and drought resistant western grasses, native shrubs,
flowers and other plants. Bison were the economic and spiritual focal
point of the Plains Indians, supplying them with food, clothing and
shelter.
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Bison generally produce one 40-50
pound calf at a rate of one per year, with cows reproducing well into
their 20’s. A mature cow will, on average, weigh 1,000-1,200 pounds. A
mature bull will average 1,500-2,000 pounds. One Bison bull can service
10-15 cows. Bison with plenty of good pasture and water are generally
content and will stay put. The suggested stocking rate is generally the
same as cattle in a particular area. Bison are more efficient feed
converters than cattle and should do very well with that ratio. |
