American bison were reduced from an estimated 30 million animals to fewer than 1,000 by the late 19th century. Conservation efforts have restored populations to around 500,000, but most live in commercial herds with limited welfare protections.
The welfare situation for bison varies enormously based on management context. Wild bison in large protected areas like Yellowstone experience conditions closest to their evolutionary heritage, including natural herd dynamics, migration, and predator-prey relationships. Commercial bison face many of the same welfare challenges as cattle, including transport stress, handling injuries, and disrupted social bonds. Bison at the boundary of protected areas face lethal management that causes suffering and disrupts family groups. Conservation programs focused on behavioral integrity as well as population numbers best serve bison welfare.