American Bison, not true buffalo, exist in Colorado. While “buffalo” is commonly used in North America, it is a historical misnomer from early European settlers. These creatures are a significant part of the state’s conservation history. They are currently managed in several public and private herds across Colorado, demonstrating the recovery of this North American mammal.
Bison Versus Buffalo The Terminology Explained
The American bison is often mistakenly called a buffalo, but it is genetically and geographically distinct from the two true buffalo species: the African Cape buffalo and the Asian water buffalo. True buffalo are native to the Old World. Anatomical differences are pronounced, especially in their upper body and head structure.
American bison possess a substantial, muscular hump over their shoulders, which supports their massive head and aids in plowing snow for winter grazing. This hump is absent in true buffalo, which have relatively flat backs. Bison also feature a thick, shaggy coat, a beard, and shorter, sharper horns that curve upward. In contrast, true buffalo have thinner coats, no prominent beard, and longer, dramatically curved horns, such as the African Cape buffalo’s helmet-like horns.
Current Status of Colorado’s Bison Herds
Wild bison were eliminated from Colorado by 1897, but conservation efforts began early in the 20th century to re-establish herds. Today, bison are classified as managed herds, often considered livestock rather than wildlife. These managed herds exist across conservation programs, government-owned parks, and private commercial operations.
Denver Mountain Parks maintains two conservation herds at Genesee Park and Daniels Park, descended from the last remaining wild bison from Yellowstone National Park. The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, just outside Denver, also hosts a significant conservation herd. Furthermore, the Laramie Foothills Bison Conservation Herd was established at the Soapstone Prairie Natural Area and Red Mountain Open Space, managed collaboratively by several entities, including Colorado State University.
Public Viewing Locations and Safety Guidelines
Several accessible locations offer high visibility for observing bison. The Buffalo Herd Overlook at Genesee Park, situated off Interstate 70, provides a convenient spot to view the Denver Mountain Park herd. Daniels Park also offers viewing areas in the southern Denver metro area. The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge allows visitors to drive the 11-mile Wildlife Auto Tour, which frequently offers views of their herd.
Bison are unpredictable and can be aggressive. They are surprisingly fast, capable of running up to 35 miles per hour and changing direction quickly. Visitors must maintain a minimum distance of 25 yards, the standard safety guideline. Never approach, feed, or harass the animals. Staying on designated trails and using binoculars for closer views ensures personal safety and the welfare of the bison.