Livestock

Farmed Bison Welfare and Husbandry

Bison farming is expanding but welfare standards vary widely across the industry.

Key Facts

North American bison number over 500,000 in commercial herds
Bison retain strong wild instincts despite domestication
Handling stress is a major welfare concern in bison
Bison are more heat-tolerant than cattle but vulnerable to drought

Welfare Considerations

Farmed bison present unique challenges: their flighty temperament means poor handling causes acute fear and injury. Bison require low-stress handling infrastructure and minimal human contact. Overcrowding, inadequate forage, and confinement all compromise welfare significantly.

What You Can Do

Choose bison products from certified humane ranches
Support development of bison-specific welfare standards
Learn about low-stress livestock handling methods
Advocate for welfare assessment tools adapted to bison