Farm Animals

Farmed Bison Welfare

Bison are increasingly farmed for meat in North America and Europe, but their wild nature creates unique welfare challenges in farming systems.

Key Facts

Bison are naturally wide-ranging animals covering up to 20 km per day
They have strong flocking instincts and become stressed when isolated
Handling facilities must be specially designed to reduce stress injury risk
Bison retain many wild behaviours even after several generations of farming
Respiratory disease and stress-related conditions are common on farms

Welfare Considerations

Bison retain many wild characteristics that make intensive confinement particularly stressful. Pasture-based systems with appropriate handling facilities and low-stress techniques are essential for their welfare.

What You Can Do

Support bison farmers who use extensive, pasture-based systems
Advocate for welfare standards specific to farmed bison
Promote low-stress handling and specialist facility design
Support research into bison stress indicators and welfare assessment
Consider welfare certification schemes when purchasing bison products