For thousands of years, the Great Plains served as an ideal home for the North American bison. However, recent research suggests that this may change before the end of the century due to climate change. Scientists from South Dakota State University studied ancient and modern records to understand how weather patterns affect bison survival.
The study shows that rising temperatures and changing rainfall are making parts of the United States less suitable for bison. By 2100, the best climate conditions for bison are expected to move northwest, closer to northern Canada and Alaska. Areas like South Dakota and North Dakota, once perfect for bison, may become too warm and dry.
"Our findings demonstrated that much of the North American continent, where bison were largely distributed over the last 160,000 years, will have a much smaller suitable living condition range by the end of the century," said Alex Shupinski, postdoctoral researcher at SDSU and the lead author on the study.
Historically, bison lived across vast areas from Alaska to Mexico, with populations once reaching tens of millions. Overhunting and human expansion nearly wiped them out by the late 1800s. Careful conservation helped recover their numbers, and today about 420,000 bison live in managed herds across North America.
Because most bison are now fenced and unable to move freely, they cannot naturally follow changing climate conditions. The research found that higher temperatures may cause bison to become smaller in size. Smaller body size could affect how often bison have calves, which may reduce population growth in the future.
The study also explains that warmer northern regions may benefit bison by increasing plant growth and food supply. Meanwhile, southern areas are expected to face water shortages and reduce grass production.
To prepare, farmers and conservationists may need to adjust to management practices. These include improving water access, careful grazing methods, and possibly moving bison to better-suited regions. Public support also remains important, as bison farming and park conservation help protect the species.
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