Farm Animal Welfare

Welfare of Farmed Bison in North America

Bison farming has grown significantly in North America, raising questions about the welfare of these wide-ranging wild ungulates in managed production systems.

Key Facts

Approximately 200,000 bison are farmed commercially in North America for meat
Bison are fundamentally different from domestic cattle in behaviour and stress responses
They are highly reactive to novel stimuli and human approach, making handling stressful
Extensive grazing systems approximate natural ranging more closely than intensive confinement
Bison welfare standards are less developed than those for cattle despite unique behavioural needs

Welfare Considerations

Bison retain strong wild instincts that make conventional cattle handling facilities highly stressful. Low-stress handling approaches adapted for bison's specific responses, extensive pasture systems and minimal human contact are key welfare requirements. Industry growth is outpacing welfare research and standards development.

What You Can Do

Support development of bison-specific welfare standards and handling guidelines
Choose bison products from verified extensive grazing operations
Learn about bison ecology and the history of bison populations in North America
Advocate for regulatory frameworks that recognise bison's distinctive welfare needs