Bison vs. Cattle

Attribute	Bison	Cattle
Species	Bison	Cattle
Genus	Bison	Bos
Size	Large	Medium to Large
Horns	Both males and females have horns	Usually only males have horns
Behavior	More solitary and migratory	More social and domesticated

Physical Characteristics

Bison, also known as buffalo, are large, shaggy mammals with a hump on their shoulders and a thick coat of fur. They have a massive head with short, curved horns. In contrast, cattle are domesticated animals that come in various breeds, such as Angus, Hereford, and Holstein. They have a more streamlined body shape with longer legs and a smoother coat of fur. Cattle also have horns, but they can be either horned or polled (hornless).

Behavior

Bison are known for their unpredictable and sometimes aggressive behavior. They are wild animals that can be territorial and protective of their herd. When threatened, bison can charge at high speeds and use their horns as weapons. On the other hand, cattle are generally more docile and predictable. They are social animals that prefer to live in herds and follow a hierarchy within the group. Cattle are often raised for their meat and milk production, so they are usually more accustomed to human interaction.

Diet

Both bison and cattle are herbivores, meaning they primarily eat plants. However, their diets can vary slightly. Bison are known to graze on grasses, sedges, and other vegetation found in the prairies and grasslands where they roam. They have a specialized digestive system that allows them to efficiently digest tough, fibrous plant material. Cattle, on the other hand, are often fed a diet of hay, grains, and other supplemental feed to ensure proper nutrition for meat and milk production. They also graze on grass when available.

Habitat

Bison are native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including grasslands, prairies, and forests. They are well-adapted to cold climates and can withstand harsh winters. Bison are known to migrate in search of food and water, covering long distances in the process. Cattle, on the other hand, are domesticated animals that are raised on farms and ranches around the world. They are often kept in pastures or feedlots where they have access to food, water, and shelter. Cattle can adapt to a wide range of climates and environments.

Reproduction

Bison and cattle both reproduce through sexual reproduction, with females giving birth to live young. Bison cows typically give birth to a single calf after a gestation period of about nine months. The calves are able to stand and walk shortly after birth and are cared for by the mother. In contrast, cattle cows can give birth to one or more calves, depending on the breed. The gestation period for cattle is also around nine months, and calves are similarly cared for by the mother.

Conservation Status

Bison were once on the brink of extinction due to overhunting and habitat loss. However, conservation efforts have helped to increase their numbers in recent years. Bison are now considered a near-threatened species, with populations found in national parks, reserves, and private ranches. Cattle, on the other hand, are not considered a threatened species. They are bred and raised for agricultural purposes, with millions of cattle being raised for meat and dairy production worldwide.