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How bison fur benefits birds – Environment America
May
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Save America’s Wildlife
Bison and birds—two creatures of polar opposite sizes—share an unexpected relationship that might surprise you.
Wildlife & wild places
If you’ve ever cheered on the CU Boulder Buffs, you’re no stranger to Ralphie, the live bison mascot that charges across the field at football games.
Or perhaps you’ve caught a glimpse of the conservation herd at Genesee Park on I-70, where bison roam as part of ongoing efforts to bring these majestic creatures back to Colorado.
While bison, also known as buffalo, no longer roam Colorado in the numbers they once did, they still play an important role in the ecosystems they do inhabit—especially when it comes to supporting local wildlife.
And you may be surprised to learn that their fur is a key piece of the puzzle.
Bison are well-known for their massive, woolly coats, which help them survive the harsh winters of the American West.
But that same fur, once shed for the summer, has an unexpected purpose when it comes to birdlife.
Many bird species, like fiches, sparrows, and blackbirds, use bison fur to build their nests. The coarse texture of the fur may also offer excellent insulation, keeping eggs warm during the cold months and providing a soft bedding for chicks.
This symbiotic relationship between bison and birds is a perfect example of how different species in an ecosystem rely on each other in ways we might not expect. And while bison’s fur benefits bird populations, it’s not just the birds that are thriving.
Bison also play a critical role in maintaining the health of the grasslands themselves. Through their grazing, fur shedding, and wallowing (rolling around in the dirt and creating depressions) they help create microhabitats for small mammals, insects, and other species that call the prairie home.
So next time you see Ralphie charging across the field, or maybe spot the conservation herd along I-70, remember that bison are more than just an iconic symbol of the American West.
Bison are vital contributors to the ecosystems that support a wide variety of plants, animals, and even the birds nesting in their fur.
Wildlife & wild places
Take action to support efforts to ensure wild bison are protected as big game in Colorado.
Former Associate, Environment Colorado
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