Bison are among the largest land mammals in the world, capable of weighing up to 900 kilograms and reaching speeds of 65 kilometres per hour despite their massive size. Despite often being called a buffalo, the American bison is not one of the true buffaloes, which are native to Africa and Asia. Its scientific name, Bison bison, leaves little room for confusion.

Its muscular shoulder hump helps it swing its head side to side, clearing snow to reach grass underneath. Both males and females grow horns and beards. Their tails offer clues about their mood: a swishing tail generally signals calm, while a raised tail may indicate agitation.