MOREHEAD, KY – Once a symbol of the vast wilderness, the bison is the largest land mammal in North America and played a significant role in Kentucky’s history.
According to Kentucky State Parks, these great herds once roamed freely across the state, providing food, clothing, and shelter for both American Indians and pioneers. However, due to overhunting, the bison population was driven to near extinction.
The last reported sighting of wild bison in Kentucky occurred around 1800, marking the end of an era for the state’s natural landscape. This disappearance is attributed to relentless hunting and habitat destruction as pioneers settled in the area, according to Kentucky State Parks.
Today, visitors can still catch a glimpse of bison in Kentucky at designated viewing areas year-round, according to Kentucky State Parks.
While modern herds are carefully managed, they stand as a living reminder of Kentucky’s prehistoric past and its connection to the Ice Age.
These herds allow visitors to reflect on the once-great populations that roamed the region centuries ago.