Farm Animal Welfare

Bison Farming and Semi-Wild Livestock Welfare

Bison retain strong wild instincts, and farming them requires specialized handling facilities and management that respects their behavioral needs.

Key Facts

American bison were reduced from 60 million to fewer than 1,000 by 1889
Farmed bison are semi-domesticated and react strongly to handling
Bison require specialized low-stress handling facilities and experienced stockpersons
Outdoor grazing systems that allow behavioral expression are preferred
Bison meat is increasingly popular as a perceived sustainable red meat

Welfare Considerations

Bison are not domesticated cattle and experience handling as highly stressful. Farms that use appropriate low-stress techniques, good facilities, and extensive grazing systems respect these animals' fundamental nature and reduce welfare compromise.

What You Can Do

Choose bison products from farms with certified humane handling practices
Support ranching models that allow bison to express natural behaviors
Learn about the conservation significance of farmed bison populations