The Crest Line

This photograph was taken in January 2023 on Grand Loop Road in the Hayden Valley of Yellowstone National Park. We had driven past this herd while they were in a small valley on the road. We parked about 100 yards past the crest and layed in the middle of the road as they crested the hill and stayed there snapping pictures until they were about 40 yards away before getting back in the truck. What an experience!

Bison, also known as American buffalo, are one of the largest land mammals in North America. Adult bison can weigh anywhere from 900 to 2,000 pounds (400 to 900 kg), depending on their sex and age. Male bison, known as bulls, are generally larger and heavier than females, known as cows. Adult bulls can weigh anywhere from 1,000 to 2,000 pounds (450 to 900 kg), while adult cows typically weigh between 800 and 1,000 pounds (360 to 450 kg). Calves, which are born in the spring, weigh around 30-70 pounds (14-32 kg) at birth and will gain weight rapidly during their first year of life.

Yellowstone bison are also important for the ecological health of the park. They are a keystone species, meaning they play a critical role in maintaining the balance and diversity of the ecosystem. For example, bison grazing can create patches of open grassland that benefit other wildlife species. Additionally, bison are important seed dispersers, helping to distribute plant seeds across the landscape.